trek fx l

TREK FX Review

Category: Hybrid Bikes

Trek dub the FX and FX Sport ranges as their ‘anywhere, anytime fitness bike’ as opposed to just being a commuting bike with a performance edge. Flat bars and a more relaxed, upright geometry point to its urban riding purpose but it would not look out of place on more characterful bike paths and longer, more varied rides.

As the name-change suggests, there is a dividing point in the range with the FX 1, FX 2 Disc, and FX 3 Disc more on the commuting side of the equation looking at their spec sheet. Even then, the difference between them is vast enough to make it worth serious consideration which is best for your needs.

At the top-end, however, those with the FX Sport moniker throw in Shimano’s mid-range road groupsets and a carbon frame. The subsequent range of gears, smooth shifting, and compliant ride is deserving of something sportier than just the commute. Performance levels are right at the top of what you would expect from a flat-barred bike; a mid-point for riders using two wheels for more than commuting but not yet ready for, or requiring, a fully-fledged road bike.

Starting with the entry-level FX range, the FX 1, FX 2 Disc and FX 3 Disc are all built around an Alpha Gold Aluminum frame. Alpha Aluminum is Trek’s innovative aluminum lay-up, which has been built to offer more compliance without reducing the stiffness-to-weight and affordability favored in alloy frames. Alpha Gold sits between Alpha Silver and Alpha Platinum, with the end result supposed to reduce fatigue over longer distances. Sleek welding keeps looks sharp too, particularly as all frames in the range boast internal cable routing.

The choice of forks varies as you climb the range though, with steel on the FX 1, alloy on the FX 2, and carbon thereafter, including the FX 3. If your target is predominantly commuting, carbon is unnecessary and the durability of the other two should take precedence. Carbon, however, improves the compliance through the front of the bike and serves up sharp handling and lightweight too.

On the FX Sport models, that carbon fork is paired with an Alpha Aluminum frame on the FX Sport 4 and an OCLV carbon frame on the FX Sport Carbon 4, FX Sport 5, and FX Sport 6. OCLV is Trek’s patented carbon lay-up process, which looks to improve the durability of its carbon frames. Other tech passed down from higher-end models includes the IsoSpeed decoupler. 

By allowing the seat tube to flex independently of the top tube, road buzz is smoothed significantly, without impacting on the bike’s rigidity and pedaling efficiency. Road racing legend Fabian Cancellara used IsoSpeed-equipped bikes to tackle the cobbles of Paris-Roubaix, so it should ramp comfort up to noticeable levels on anything the FX Sport is likely to tackle.

All frames in the range are DuoTrap compatible, allowing wireless integration with your bike computer or smartphone from a sensor in the chainstay. Trek have also looked to save time and maintenance with the 3S chain keeper. It is a very small touch, but a further testament to Trek’s attention to detail.

The groupsets clearly highlight the expected usage of each model, with the FX 1, FX 2, and FX 3 all wearing components from Shimano’s entry-level urban ranges. Shimano Altus, Shimano Tourney, and Shimano Acera are combined, with the FX 1 and FX 2 featuring triple cranksets for more gear options. The FX 1 uses rim brakes – though a disc version is available – and other bikes in the series come with hydraulic discs.

Step up to the FX Sport range, however, and the components step up too. Both the FX Sport 4 and FX Sport 5 wear Shimano Tiagra and the FX Sport 6 features Shimano 105. The exception to the rule is the FX Sport Carbon 4, with Shimano’s gravel-specific GRX group to highlight its off-road capability. It further reiterates Trek’s claim of an ‘anywhere, anytime’ bike.

Looking in more detail at the road groups, meanwhile, Shimano Tiagra has stepped up from its previous mark as a ‘slightly-better-than-entry-level’ group in the Shimano hierarchy. Both Tiagra and 105, much like Trek’s framesets, have profited from trickle-down technology and both offer superb value for money. That said, to get the most out of Shimano 105, its smooth shifting and range of gears, you want to be taking the Trek FX far beyond just the bike paths. Value for money is relative.

Buying Trek means Bontrager finishing kit, from the in-house component arm of the American giants. Bontrager wheels are standard fare across the Trek range and it is no different with the FX or the FX Sport. Three different wheelsets are used throughout the range. On the FX 1 and FX 2, it is Bontrager Connection hoops, on the FX 3, FX Sport 4 and FX Sport Carbon 4 you get Bontrager Tubeless Ready Disc wheels and on the FX Sport 5 and FX Sport 6 the Bontrager Affinity Discs.

It is standard fare, from the entry-level end of Bontrager’s vast range, and whether you feel the need to upgrade will center on your riding intentions. For the FX 1 and FX 2, the wheels are basic at best but you do get Bontrager’s H2 reflective hybrid tires with them. They include reflective sidewalls and are built to blend durability, smooth rolling, and grip.

Again, the Tubeless Ready Disc wheels are the basic version of a range which stretches as high as the elite-level Aeolus hoops. The FX 3 uses H2 Hard-Case Lite rubber, while the FX Sport 4 and FX Sport Carbon 4 use R1 Hard-Case Lite. As indicated by the name, the H2 is built with hybrid bikes in mind, while the R1 is more aimed at road riding. Both feature Hard-Case puncture protection for durability, however.

Finally, the FX Sport 5 and FX Sport 6 step things up a little, with the Bontrager Affinity Disc-Ready wheels and R1 and R2 Hard-Case Lite tires respectively. As with all bikes, however, upgrading the rolling stock will make a big difference to your ride. The FX Sport 5 and FX Sport 6 are built for more dedicated road riding, so if you can afford to shop higher up the Bontrager range it will add an extra level to your riding. Out of the box, the supplied rolling stock will do the job though – but nothing special.

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Trek FX 1 (Disc) Review: Is It a Good Bike or Waste of Money?

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Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc hybrid bikes are often considered by beginners, commuters, and those who want to upgrade their old bike. But the question is, are they worth it?

Based on my overview of the hybrid bike market , comparisons with other brands, and components, the Trek FX 1 is worth it . You’ll especially appreciate its quality craftsmanship, comfortable ride thanks to wider tires, upright riding position, and affordable price.

Continue reading if you want to learn more about this bike, or buy it here (also available with rim brakes ).

Is Trek FX 1 (Disc) a Good Bike?

Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc bikes are popular thanks to their affordable price and riding comfort. They retail for $599 and $699, respectively (in 2023).

They are available in multiple sizes (FX 1: S-XL, FX 1 Disc: XS-XXL), pleasing many riders.

You can also choose from two colors that change with each new generation. Trek also usually equips them with slightly modified components every year.

Another great news, especially for women, is that Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc are available as step-through options, making it easier to get on.

Pros and Cons of Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc

Here, I summarized the pros and cons of Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc.

Pros of Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc

• Quality and sturdy aluminum frame
• FX 1 Disc has excellent stopping power thanks to disc brakes
• Available for men and women
• Excellent price-value ratio
• Comfortable geometry, allowing upright riding position
• Ergonomic grips for relieving pressure on your wrists
• Compatible with racks and fenders
• Flat pedals included
• Compatible with DuoTrap S sensor

Cons of Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc

• 3X drivetrain (2X and 1X became more popular thanks to their simplicity)
• Slightly heavier

To fully understand the pros and cons, I recommend reading the following section, where I compare its features with today’s hybrid bikes .

Main Features of Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc

Let’s now dive deeper into Trek’s FX 1 and FX 1 Disc components so you better understand their value.

Aluminum Frame

One of the main features of every bike is its frame. All Treks FX 1 and FX 1 Disc were based on an aluminum frame.

Aluminum frames are durable, reasonably lightweight, and affordable. That’s why aluminum is still one of the most popular bike frame materials .

Their fork is made of steel, though. This means a weight increase and a little worse aesthetics as the fork doesn’t match the rest of the bike. But, function-wise, you can rely on it.

The geometry of FX bikes is a bit more aggressive than other hybrid bikes for around $500 but still relaxed enough for an upright riding position.

This means you won’t experience back pain after long rides, and you don’t need to be as flexible as you would on high-performance road bikes, for example.

700c Wheels

Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc have 700c wheels that are standard on hybrid and road bikes.

They come with 35mm hybrid tires, ensuring you can ride fast on paved roads, but they won’t puncture once you enter gravel.

These tires are one of the main reasons these bikes are so versatile. Of course, we are not talking about an MTB-like terrain but rather a compromise between road and gravel biking .

Trek FX bikes come with Shimano and Tektro components (drivetrain and brakes). The 3X drivetrain is one of the main weaknesses of these bikes. I know you will have more gears, but let me explain.

From my experience, most people often don’t know how to shift properly and often encounter cross-chaining.

That’s why I believe 2X and 1X drivetrains are better for beginners and less experienced riders.

They are simpler to use and maintain. Furthermore, they are lighter. 3X drivetrains are too complicated.

Other components, like the saddle, seatpost, handlebar, stem, etc., were made by Trek’s brand Bontrager.

The 3×7spd drivetrain on FX 1 offers 21 gears, and FX 1 Disc has 3×8spd (24). That’s a lot. I have 22 on my road bike ( modern road bikes have 24).

The gear ratios (i.e., the gears’ difficulty) range from easy gears suitable for steep climbs up to hard gears for fast descents.

Remember, FX 1 and FX 1 Disc gear ratios are slightly different. But you should be fine with both whether you live in a flat or hilly area.

Trek FX bikes come with a couple of extra features that are worth mentioning. First, they have ergonomic grips that reduce pressure on your palms. So, even if you ride without gloves, your hands won’t get sore.

Furthermore, FX bikes are compatible with the DuoTrap sensor. While not included with the bike, if you decide to get it, it will measure your cadence, speed, and distance ridden.

Of course, these bikes are also designed to be compatible with fenders, stands, and racks to increase your storage capacity.

Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc Specifications

Below, I summarize the most important technical specifications.

• Frame material: Aluminum
• Fork material: Steel
• Weight: ±13 kg (28.7 lbs), depending on frame size
• Wheel size: 700c
• Brakes: Rim or disc
• Groupset: Shimano Tourney/Altus
• Gears: 3×7spd, 3×8spd (14-34T or 11-32T cassette)
• Colors: Differ based on the year

The following pictures show the detailed specifications of the Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc.

Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc Alternatives

One of the closest alternatives to the Trek FX family are the Co-op CTY bikes , especially the CTY 1.1 and CTY 1.2.

Eventually, you can check out bikes like Marin or Polygon or:

The hybrid bikes Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc aren’t perfect – no bike is. However, they offer a good price-value ratio.

They will reliably serve you whether you want to use them for commuting to work or maintaining your fitness.

They allow you to ride on asphalt, paved paths, bumpy roads, and even on terrain like dirt roads or light gravel.

So, which one will you choose? Personally, I would lean towards the FX 1 Disc version for its excellent stopping power.

Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc FAQ

Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc hybrid bikes are worth it, especially if you buy them discounted. They are ideal for beginners and those looking for an affordable and reliable bike for commuting.

Trek FX 1 weighs 12.57 kg (27.72 lbs), and the FX 1 Disc is 12.68 kg (27.96 lbs) in the M size.

Trek FX 1 (Disc) is the base model of the FX family. Higher-end models have better components, resulting in a lower overall bike weight. Check out my Trek FX bikes comparison for more info.

About The Author

Petr Minarik

2 thoughts on “trek fx 1 (disc) review: is it a good bike or waste of money”.

I have a 2024 v brake trek fx1 and i love it. Its probably the best bike I’ve ever had. Don’t like the mechanic at the shop I bought it from but I’ll definitely buy another trek bike if I could ever afford it. This thing glides. Love it. Somehow my rear v brake is spongy right after a break in adjustment and brake tune. Still figuring that out.

Cool. I am glad you enjoy it. 🙂 What do you mean by “spongy”? – Petr

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Trek FX+ 2 review

The trex fx+ 2 is a great, simple electric bike but needs a bit more to live up to its high price tag.

Tom's Guide Verdict

The Trek FX+ 2 is an eBike that is easy to ride and feels like a bike, but the lack of certain features makes it tough to justify its $2,399 price.

Clean design

Responsive pedal assist

Comes with fenders and rack included

No removable battery

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

The Trek FX+ 2 feels like a bike. Trek has definitely made an effort for this city-focused eBike to look and feel like a bike as much as possible and in that effort, it succeeded. The FX+ 2 felt like riding a traditional bicycle until you really turn on the pedal assist, and even then it still largely kept that feel. At around 40 pounds, it also is closer in weight to a traditional bicycle, at least compared to the competition. I was able to get it up and down stairs without breaking a sweat, which was convenient. 

Weight: 40.13 pounds Max rider weight: 300 pounds Gearing: 9-speed Shimano Altus Battery: 250Wh Motor: 250W HyDrive motor Max assisted speed: 20 mph Max estimated range: 35 miles

For all these successes, the $2,399 FX+2 is significantly more expensive than our best budget electric bike , t he Aventon Soltera ($1,399) or our best overall electric bike , t he Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus ($1,999). This despite the FX+ 2 having no throttle, no LCD display and no removable battery. As enjoyable as riding it may be — and it is — it’s tough to recommend it over the competition.  

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Price and availability 

The Trek FX+ 2 came out in May 2022 at a starting price of $2,200, but the version we reviewed came with a price tag of $2,399. Unfortunately, it looks like the price has gone up since launch, with the 2023 models of the FX+ 2 coming in at $2,499 on Trek’s website.

The good news is that you are not forced to buy the FX+ 2 from Trek. Trek offers its bikes through local retailers in addition to its website, and those retailers may offer lower (or higher) prices than Trek. So make sure to check with your local bike shop before adding the FX+ 2 to your cart.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Design 

Trek offers the FX+ 2 eBike in four sizes (S, M, L, XL) and three colors: Satin Trek Black, Viper Red and Satin Mulsanne Blue. The model I was provided with was a Satin Mulsanne blue in size L, which worked perfectly with my 6-foot 2-inch height and 32-inch inseam.

At first glance, the FX+ 2 looks like a traditional bicycle. That’s because Trek has intentionally designed it this way, with the cables and battery stored within the tubes of the bike. Unfortunately, that means the battery isn’t removable — at least by you. Trek says that the battery can be removed by a trained technician, so you’ll need to head to a shop if anything goes wrong. 

That said, you can still add an external battery for extra range. There are two water bottle holders, one on the seat tube and one on the down tube, and the one on the downtube allows for a 250Wh plug-and-play Range Extender battery. This allows you to easily double your range if needed. That battery life comes at a price though; the Hyena Range Extender Battery costs $499.

Designed for commuters and city bikers, the FX+ 2 comes already equipped with some much-needed accessories. The eBike comes stock with a front fender, rear fender, headlight, taillight, kickstand, bell and rear bike rack — no need to buy one of the best bike lights separately. There’s also a chain guard to prevent clothes from getting caught in the chain.

Still, there are a couple of things missing in the design that would be nice to have. First, the Hyena pedal assist control system has an LED display for the battery status and pedal assist mode. It is easy to use and read, but many eBikes now have LCD displays, so this feels cheap by comparison. Additionally, the wheels are not quick-release, which means if something goes wrong you’ll need tools on you to get the wheels off.

But the biggest design flaw is the lack of any shock absorption in the bike. The FX+ 2 definitely feels every bump and pothole, especially at top speed. Even merely adding a seat post shock absorber would be a welcome addition.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Performance 

The performance of the Trek FX+ 2 was more than adequate. Between the three power modes (Eco, Normal and Turbo) and the nine-speed rear cassette, I was able to hit the top speed of 20 mph frequently, regularly averaging 13MPH while riding through the streets of Atlanta.

Hills were also not a problem once you get a feel for the bike. I could regularly keep my cadence going up hills by using the full range of the bike’s gears and the Turbo pedal assist mode. The pedal assist modes kicked in very smoothly and with almost no lag.

The only shortcoming the FX+ 2 really has in terms of performance is the lack of a throttle to give riders fully motor-assisted thrust (i.e. no using your pedals), which does come on some of the FX+ 2’s competitors like the Soltera and RadCity 5 Plus. However, I would be lying if I said I missed it. The bike is plenty quick and easy to ride without it. 

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Battery life and range 

Trek states that the FX+ 2’s 250Wh battery can provide riders with up to 35 minutes of range. This of course depends on a range of factors, from the pedal assist mode you typically use to how hilly your terrain is.

My commute to work was just over five and a half miles round trip and I would go through about a quarter of the battery. That puts my estimated range at closer to 22 miles. However, I almost always used the Turbo (highest) pedal assist and I do have a large hill each way. So had I been more conservative I could have probably got more range out of the FX+ 2. 

Luckily if you do need to charge the bike, it only takes around two hours for a full charge and the charger can be plugged into any wall outlet.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Competition 

Unfortunately, the Trek FX+ 2 really struggles when compared to the competition, at least on paper. I have yet to ride the Aventon Soltera, but it is currently our best budget eBike and has a very similar feature set and design aesthetic compared to the FX+ 2. While the pedal-assist seems like it is not as smooth and responsive as the FX+ 2 and it lacks a 9-speed option, you can still get a 7-speed for $1,399. That’s $1,000 less than the FX+ 2 I reviewed, but you get more range, a throttle and an LCD display.

If you want something higher-end, the Rad Power RadCity5 Plus is our best budget bike and would still be my pick over the FX+ 2 based on the research I have done on the RadCity 5 Plus. The FX+ 2 is lighter, and significantly so (over 20 pounds!), but the RadCity 5 Plus has a feature set that really sets it apart. Yes, you only get a 7-speed rear cassette, but you also get a throttle, a removable battery and two LCD displays compared to the zero LCD displays on the FX+ 2.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Bottom line 

Ultimately, if the Trek FX+ 2 eBike was cheaper it would be a lot easier to recommend. It was a lot of fun to ride, easy to carry with its 40-pound weight and has a very clean design. If price weren’t a factor, I would say the quick pedal assist make it a great choice, and the fact that it comes with fenders and a rack standard is a nice touch.

But none of that can make me get past the fact that this bike is hundreds — if not a thousand — dollars more than its competition without providing a lot of reasons why. Yes, it's lightweight, and it's a Trek so the build quality is excellent, but it lacks the LCD displays, removable battery or throttle that so many of the best electric bikes have. If the FX+ 2 had even some of those features, I’d rate it significantly higher, even with the price. 

Malcolm McMillan is a senior writer for Tom's Guide, covering all the latest in streaming TV shows and movies. That means news, analysis, recommendations, reviews and more for just about anything you can watch, including sports! If it can be seen on a screen, he can write about it. Previously, Malcolm had been a staff writer for Tom's Guide for over a year, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), A/V tech and VR headsets.

Before writing for Tom's Guide, Malcolm worked as a fantasy football analyst writing for several sites and also had a brief stint working for Microsoft selling laptops, Xbox products and even the ill-fated Windows phone. He is passionate about video games and sports, though both cause him to yell at the TV frequently. He proudly sports many tattoos, including an Arsenal tattoo, in honor of the team that causes him to yell at the TV the most.

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FX 1 is a hybrid bike with a lightweight aluminum frame and quality parts that perform wherever you like to ride. Its perfect for anyone looking to get out more, ride as a family, do a bit of exercise, or commute to work on a versatile bike backed by a lifetime warranty. Its right for you if... - You want to get out and ride more, and youre looking for performance where it really counts: a lightweight frame, wide range of gearing, and strong wheels. You also want a great value and the confidence of Treks lifetime warranty. The tech you get - A lightweight aluminum frame; 21 speeds so theres always a right gear for your terrain; strong, double-walled wheels with wide, stable tires; and mounts that make it easy to accessorize your ride with racks, fenders, lights, fitness trackers, a kickstand, and more! The final word - FX 1 is a versatile hybrid bike at a great value. Its built with a lightweight aluminum frame, performance parts that keep the price in check, and strong wheels built on double-walled rims. This hybrid is perfectly suited to a variety of uses, from casual riding to exercise and commutes. Why youll love it - This bike brings families together, gets people away from screens, and lets you enjoy time outside - Its versatile and does whatever you want it to do, whether thats riding for fitness, commuting, or cruising to the farmers market to pick up groceries - Its easy to accessorize with racks, a kickstand, fenders, lights, and more! - You can pair FX with your smartphone and send your ride data to your favorite fitness app when you add DuoTrap S - Like every Trek hybrid, its backed by a lifetime warranty and supported by a wide network of retail partners

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

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Adrienne So

Review: Trek FX+ 2

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If you come to me and say, “I’ve never ridden an electric bike before,” I am probably going to take a few factors into consideration. The first is safety. If you’ve never built a bike, I’m probably not going to recommend a mail-order one you have to assemble yourself. You don’t want to discover that you've failed to tighten a screw when you’re going 20 miles per hour down a hill.

You also probably want a bike that’s reasonably priced, comfortable, and convenient to ride. In fact, you might want one that’s as close to your first human-powered bike as possible. Trek’s FX+ 2 hits all the sweet spots. It’s made by a reputable manufacturer with a wide retailer network. The reasonable base price includes all the commuter components, like integrated lights and fenders. Most importantly, it’s light and maneuverable.

It’s not a 65-pound “starter” ebike that will crush you if you stop on a hill or forget to charge the battery. Nor is it a smart bike that makes you spend 20 minutes walking through an app before you can ride it. I've been testing ebikes at home for years, and this is the first one my 60-year-old dad has felt comfortable grabbing and using to chase after my kids. “Sometimes I don’t even turn it on,” he remarked the other day. That’s the whole point.

The FX+ 2 comes in two configurations and three different sizes. The default model has a regular step-over top tube, and the FX+ 2 Stagger has a step-through top tube. Both come in a variety of colors and have small, medium, and large sizes. I’m 5'2" and the small-size Stagger fits me well. However, if you’re smaller than 5 feet, you might want to look at a different bike.

The cables, battery, and motor are inside the frame. The only clue the FX+ 2 Stagger is an ebike at all is a small unit with only three buttons on it: a power button, and plus and minus symbols. When you turn on the bike, its lights turn on, and two light meters show how much battery you have left and what level of pedal assistance you have toggled on.

That’s it. There’s no bright LCD display and no throttle. This might seem like a downside, but I use my electric bike for commuting and running errands. When I lock it up on a rack, it gives me peace of mind to know that no one’s going to spot a lone ebike in the wild and immediately try to steal it (or the battery).

I also appreciate the clarity in the controls. I’ve tried other electric bikes with a one-button toggle, but I could never remember how many times to press the button to toggle the level of assist, or what light indicated how much battery I had left.

The FX+ 2 has a 250-watt Hydrive rear hub motor, which is the European standard. That might seem slightly underpowered to Americans looking to power up huge hills, but the bike is so light and maneuverable that having a smaller motor doesn’t matter much at all. The medium frame size weighs 40 pounds—almost 30 pounds lighter than my own Tern GSD S00.

Not only is it easy to scootch up hills, it’s also easy to maneuver onto crowded bike racks when I’m out, or to lift onto our hanging bike rack in my garage. Also, for the past two weeks, it’s the first bike both my dad and I have grabbed to run errands around the neighborhood. The stated range is 35 miles, but we’ve put at least 10 miles on it by now, and the battery seems largely untouched. The fast 45c road tires didn’t hurt, either.

It does lack a few features we're used to seeing on higher-end ebikes by now, like a low-maintenance carbon belt drive or a continuously variable shifter. Instead, it has a regular bike chain on a nine-speed Shimano shifting system, with a derailleur that, yes, you may have to adjust occasionally.

But honestly, this was more than fine by me. I didn’t have to learn a new shifting system or figure out how to calibrate the gearing with the assist levels. I wasn’t riding a bike that was trying to predict how much assist I’d need and when—I could simply toggle on more or less as I rode. In that way, it felt much easier and more natural. 

It also has a lot of accessories that may be equally important, especially as the weather here in Oregon has grown cold, gray, and wet in the past few weeks. The 120-lumen headlamp is incredibly bright. The bell is incredibly loud. The fenders have kept my jeans relatively dry, and I’ve been able to bungee items onto the rear rack. A kickstand keeps it up in the garage for quick access, and hydraulic disc brakes work even when the rain is pouring down.

The price point may seem high compared to direct-to-consumer bikes from Aventon, Lectric, or Rad Power. But once you start adding up the cost of quality components, labor, and accessories, their prices start inching up. Mail-order companies are able to offer much lower prices on base models because their motors are cheaper. With a nicer motor, a mail-order bike like the Ride1Up Prodigy is priced comparably to the FX+ 2, and you have to assemble and safety-check it yourself.

Over the years, I’ve seen bicycle manufacturers debate and then struggle to add or subtract features that will make electric bikes more attractive to people who haven’t biked before. Extremely low step-throughs! Weird shifting systems! Apps! Huge tires! Maybe the best way to get people on an electric bike is the same way you get people on a regular bike—by making it fun, light, and easy to ride.

Trek FX+ 2 Stagger Review

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• An affordable, quiet, light weight, feature complete electric bicycle. Available in three frame sizes and three premium colors. Assembled and serviced by one of the largest bicycle networks in North America, it comes with a two year comprehensive warranty with lifetime frame warranty.
• The mid-step frame design is approachable, easy to step over, but also sturdy and light. They provided space to mount a bottle cage or other accessory on the downtube! Very clean integrated cables and wires. Excellent 9-speed drivetrain with wide 11-36 tooth cassette.
• Decent 160mm hydraulic disc brakes are easy to actuate. The 700x40c tires are efficient and include reflective sidewalls for safety. Integrated front and rear lights are positioned well. Plastic fenders keep you dry and clean. The rear rack offers great weight capacity at 25kg or 55lbs.
• Lower than average 250wh battery capacity and 250 watt motor pair nicely for an efficient ride, but aren't as strong or long lasting. The torque and cadence sensor aren't as instant as I was hoping for. The battery cannot easily be removed for storage and charging, so you need to park near a plug.

Video Review

Introduction

Body position:, suggested use:, electric bike class:, learn more about ebike classes, availability:, model year:, bicycle details, total weight:, battery weight:, frame material:, frame sizes:, geometry measurements:, frame types:, frame colors:, frame fork details:, frame rear details:, attachment points:, gearing details:, shifter details:, brake details:, seat post length:, seat post diameter:, tire brand:, wheel sizes:, tire details:, tube details:, accessories:, electronic details, motor brand:, motor type:, learn more about ebike motors, motor nominal output:, motor torque:, battery brand:, battery voltage:, battery amp hours:, battery watt hours:, battery chemistry:, charge time:, estimated min range:, estimated max range:, display type:, drive mode:, written review.

This review was provided for free, but Trek Coquitlam supplied a temporary demo bike for me to test. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Trek products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below, and the Trek electric bike forums .

Observations:

• Trek is one of the “Big Three” North American bicycle manufacturers (including Specialized and Giant). The company launched in 1975, specializing in hand-brazed steel frames, and then expanded to 90 different countries. In my opinion, they are one of the very best ebike makers with high quality designs, above average support, and a wide range of frame configurations, sizes, and accessories.
• The motor and battery system used for this electric bike are familiar to me because they were also used for two Electra models that launched in prior years; the Cruiser Go! and Townie Go! It’s a light weight system that blends in, reduces noise, and keeps the cost relatively low. I’m calling this out because Electra is part of the Trek Bicycle Company, and you may see these models at Trek dealers. I think they are worth knowing about and considering for their different colors, relaxed cruiser geometry, and similar performance if you’re looking at the Trek FX+ 2.
• These Trek FX+ 2 electric bikes look amazing, and are available in many sizes and colors! They come feature complete with matching fenders, lights, and a rear rack… They even have a chainring guard and chain cover. You can get the bike and just go, regardless of conditions, without needing to take extra steps. I love how the battery is completely hidden in the downtube and the planetary geared hub motor is so compact and painted black to match the spokes and rims… It is basically hidden behind the 160mm disc brake rotor and 9-speed cassette gear cluster. The result is an ebike that could easily be mistaken for a traditional bicycle. I found that the bike is also very quiet, even when using the highest level of assist.
• The bike I tested was size medium, and it felt very comfortable to pedal and ride. I could even ride with no hands and the bike tracked well. The taller 700c (28″) wheels offer a low attack angle that smooths out cracks and bumps a bit… which is nice since there’s no suspension.
• This is an electric bike that could be used for all sorts of activities, I see it as potentially being a best seller because it’s so versatile. So I love that they have both a high step and mid-step build. Both models still have bottle cage bosses for bringing fluids or an accessory along, or you can use this spot to mount a Range Extender battery pack to double your range! That’s an awesome and unique feature. In general, I was really impressed by how thoughtful the concept and range of options are for these ebikes.
• The body position and geometry are fairly active, so this would be a great choice for people who enjoy pedaling and want to be semi-aerodynamic. You can find more upright relaxed models in the cruiser style from Electra if you want. I love that it has a 9-speed drivetrain with such a wide cassette range of 11 to 36 tooth sprockets! That’s above average for this price point in my experience.
• It was very impressive to see a narrow-wide chainring on this ebike, which will help keep the chain from slipping or dropping. I usually only see that on mountain bikes or high speed models. This chainring pairs perfectly with the plastic guard to keep the drivetrain functioning reliably in many conditions.
• This is a little thing, but all of the hardware is color-matched as black or silver. This includes hubs, spokes, rims, seat post, stem, handlebar, chainring guard, kickstand, and cranks. This is the level of detail that Trek is known for with all of their products, and it sets it apart when comparing to some cheaper brands.
• While the battery is not easily removable, and the charging port is a bit low on the frame, I appreciate how easy it was to interact with, that it has a durable plastic cover, and that the charger is so light and compact. Also, you can remove the battery for repair or replacement with the help of a shop if needed! Trek warranties their bikes for two years comprehensive and lifetime on the frame, so I feel that this model and battery design will be supported for a long time.
• Even though the display panel is very simple and compact, I found it to be less intimidating and distracting than some LCD computer displays. There are five green dots for charge level, and three red dots for assist level… and that’s it. Apparently there could be a smartphone app at some point, and Trek / Electra dealers can connect to the bike to perform software or firmware updates at the shop.
• In addition to being one of the lightest electric bike from Trek, it’s also one of the most affordable at $2,499. This is very impressive to me considering it is sold at a dealer, comes with that great warranty, is offered in so many sizes and colors, and is feature complete. I love the bell, ergonomic grips, internal cable routing, and headlight placement! You can spend ~$700 less for one of the similar Electra models that use the same drivetrain, but they may not include the accessories and don’t have hydraulic brakes.
• The hydraulic disc brakes are very easy to actuate and offer adjustable-reach levers to fit a range of hand sizes. This pairs perfectly with the range of sizes. I should mention also that the handlebar and crank arms change length to match the different frame sizes too, so it’s a more complete size difference with improved fit and comfort.
• Interestingly, the Stagger version of the bike (step-thru model) uses a female specific saddle. I thought hey would have gone gender neutral because many people like the approachability of mid-steps and step-thrus, but I still found the saddle to be comfortable… and I’m a guy. Perhaps women will appreciate it even more. Note the stagger frame comes in three sizes while the high step comes in four.
• Trek has included a clear sticker slap guard on the right chain stay that will keep the paint looking beautiful and might also reduce noise if the chain bounces into the frame. They also configured the motor to have a left-entry power cable that is tucked between the left chainstay and disc brake rotor. Some of the Electra models I saw with the HyDrive had the motor power cable on the right, protruding and cluttering the derailleur area.
• I’m used to seeing affordable electric bikes specced with cadence sensors, but the Electra Townie Go! 7D comes with a torque and cadence sensing bottom bracket that feels a bit more natural and dynamic. The harder you pedal, the more power you get. It doesn’t feel jerky or surprising, but it does require a bit more pedal effort and rotation than a pure cadence-only sensor.
• If you hold the minus button for a few seconds, then the plus button, the bike will offer walk mode which is useful if you get a flat tire or need to cut across a park or other crowded area. This is especially useful if the rear rack is loaded up, and I love that it has such a high weight capacity of 25kg 55lbs!
• Compared to many of the other Trek electric bicycle models, this one has a lower battery capacity of 250 watt hours, no USB charging port on the display panel, limited display readouts, and a minimalist hub motor vs. multi-sensing mid-drive. It’s light, efficient, and inexpensive, but a lot less powerful and dynamic.
• As much as I love the internally mounted battery design for keeping weight low and center, the pack is not easily removable. This means you have to park the entire bike near a plug to refill. This could be challenging for people who ride to work and have to park outside, and it also means the battery could be exposed to more extreme temperatures. That said, it’s cool that they sell an optional Range Extender battery pack that can be removed, which will double your range.
• In general, the hub motor on this electric cruiser bicycle is weaker than most others in North America. It’s maxed out for European markets, offering 250 watts and 40 newton meters of torque, and it felt very satisfying to me, but a lot of the competition is at 350, 500, and even 750 watts. One downside to higher powered motors is that they use the battery energy up faster, which requires a larger battery, which makes the bike heavier and more expensive.
• I noticed that the brake levers did not have motor inhibitors to immediately cut power whenever the rider is stopping. Considering the weaker motor and the torque plus cadence sensing pedal assist sensors, I feel that it’s still safe and was a good decision to reduce wire clutter and complexity, but there may be moments when the brakes are fighting the motor at the very beginning of a stop or if you accidentally keep pedaling while braking.
• I love that they chose hydraulic disc brakes for this model, even though the rotors are fairly small at 160mm diameter vs. 180mm+ that’s probably fine for urban and city riding for most people. However, if you’re heavier, the bike is loaded up (including the rear rack), and you’re going down a big hill, the brakes just aren’t as strong. The combination of smaller rotors and taller 28″ 700c wheel size reduces the mechanical advantage given to the brakes.
• I love that the bike includes fenders and lights, although the rear light only uses one LED and is a little exposed on the rack vs. surrounded or protected by the tubing. Try not to bump the light while loading the rack as it could crack more easily in this location. I was impressed that even though the fenders are plastic, they didn’t rattle a lot.
• There’s no suspension on this electric bike, which is not uncommon for more affordable city models. It helps to reduce weight, improve stiffness and steering response, and of course keep the price lower. That said, the tires are fairly narrow and the pressure rating is kind of high at 55 to 85 PSI. If you ride on bumpy terrain or have a sensitive neck or back, consider a 31.6mm suspension seat post , but note that it will raise the minimum saddle height by a few inches.
• The headlight has side windows to make it more visible from different angles and the tires have reflective stripes for improved visibility and safety, but I didn’t see a puncture protection rating. Neither wheel has quick release, so changing flats and doing bike maintenance could require more time. One benefit however, is the reduced chance of theft and tampering at public bike racks! Not even the saddle clamp appeared to have quick release.
• The pedals that come with this model are very basic plastic with some shallow knubs. They are probably fine for most riders who are just casually riding through neighborhoods and city environments, but they aren’t super grippy and won’t allow snow or mud to squish through the way that other pedals might. Thankfully, pedals are easy and inexpensive to replace! I would consider a BMX pedal like this for myself.
• The display panel button pad is discrete and less likely to be damaged because it’s so compact, but it doesn’t show your current speed, a precise battery readout, estimated range, or any of the other neat stats that a full LCD panels usually do. I was told that the bike might have a smartphone app in the future, but I didn’t see an obvious way to pair it, and even the walk mode setting was a little confusing to activate (hold the – key for a few seconds until the red lights cycle repeatedly, then hold the + button to make the bike move forward slowly).
• This is a minor consideration, but I noticed a lot of ebikes with hub motors also have a throttle. This allows for easier starts and balancing, or simply not pedaling, which some people appreciate. All Trek/Electra ebikes are Class 1 and do not have throttles, which means they can be ridden in more places legally and tend to get better range because you have to pedal along.
• The kickstand is positioned well, and I love that the length can be adjusted without the need for tools… but it just didn’t seem very sturdy. I had it slide to a lower position a couple of times and the plastic end tip actually fell off at one point when I was adjusting and standing the bike for photos. The mounting interface is very standard with 18mm spaced bolt holes. I guess if I were to do it over again, I wouldn’t mess with the length and I probably wouldn’t try to extend it to the longest (tallest) position because it might not be as sturdy there.

Useful Resources:

• Trek electric bike dealers .
• Official Trek website.

Review Updated On

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Comments (7) YouTube Comments

Richard stallard.

Any comments on the smoothness of the motor assist? My wife has a Fx+ 2 high step model and finds the boost is too strong at low speed such as when maneuvering through an intersection over curbs, ramps, etc. After closer observations, we concluded the boost seemed to switch on/off in response to rider torque rather than the boost being proportional to rider effort, for example with the Trek Verve+ 2 bike with Bosch drive. Overall, we were disappointed that the Fx+ didn’t appear to be fully utilizing the capabilities of the torque sensor. We asked our Trek dealer to dial down the lowest boost level, which was easy for them to do. However, my wife still prefers to switch the boost off for low speed maneuvering situations.

Hi Richard! It’s interesting to read your comment about assist, and how the torque sensor might be less dynamic than Bosch and others. This was my experience as well, the torque sensor didn’t activate motor power as instantly as I had hoped, and I didn’t notice a variation of assist as much as low, medium, and high for each of the assist levels. It seemed much more like a traditional cadence sensor, and most of my rides were conducted using the highest level of assist. Thanks again for sharing your perspectives. My video review is now embedded on the page and live on YouTube so you can hear and see more thoughts realtime as I rode!

Like you, I was a bit anti hub motors because I thought they missed out on the gearing of the chain drive to increase torque, but then it dawned on me that even the lowest gear on most e-bikes with 1x gearing is more than 1:1 (e.g. 42:36 or 44:42) so the torque of a mid-drive motor is actually reduced by the time it gets to the back wheel, whereas the hub motor always has 1:1 torque factor.

Hi Richard, that’s a good point. I wouldn’t say I’m anti-hub motor, just recognizing the trade offs between different setups! I appreciate that hub motors can work even if the chain breaks or there is some other drivetrain issue with the cassette, derailleur, or chainring. I like how well they pair with throttle systems, and I definitely appreciate how inexpensive they can be. That said, it makes wheel maintenance more difficult because of the power cable, and adds unsprung weight if it’s a suspended wheel. It can also increase wear and tear on the drivetrain (chain etc.) unless there’s shift detection in place.

I bought mine like almost 2 months ago. My FX+2 sometimes doesn’t assist even I turned on my electric assist. I need to turn off and turn on like once or twice before it assists. Sometimes when it assists when I turn it on first try. Sadly, I find it hassle when I need to off and on multiple times before electric assist can read my pedaling. Did you experienced it as well?

Interesting, I did not experience this during my test ride Martel. However, I got a brand new model and only spent a day riding it. Perhaps there’s a loose connection from the battery to the motor controller? One of the big benefits of buying any Trek or Electra model is that they have a lot of dealers around the US and Canada. If you happen to be near one, I’d definitely take the bike in for a tuneup, maybe there’s even a new firmware they could load that would help! Sorry to hear about the issues, but I hope you can get them resolved and enjoy the bike as it was intended without issue.

Hi, I wondered if you got this resolved? My wife has the same issue on and of on her Fx+.

Regards, Gerard

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Screen Rant

The veil review: elisabeth moss gives another strong performance in fx spy thriller that's just okay.

It may lose sight of what works best, but the themes & characterizations are crafted well enough to make for an overall satisfying viewing experience.

• The Veil goes beyond typical spy thrillers to focus on women navigating power and autonomy.
• Elisabeth Moss and Yumna Marwan shine as leading ladies in the narrative.
• Despite flaws, the show's engaging themes, performances, and pace offer a satisfying viewing experience.

The Veil makes no attempts to mask its grander ambitions as a poetic, epic six-part spy thriller. The FX series isn't your ordinary espionage story; it is about the lengths women must go to remain in control of their fate and the disguises they use to maintain autonomy. The theme is thinly veiled as this story ultimately places women in a position often filled by men, allowing that reality to color how the story goes.

FX’s  The Veil  explores the surprising and fraught relationship between two women who play a deadly game of truth and lies on the road from Istanbul to Paris and London. One woman has a secret, the other a mission to reveal it before thousands of lives are lost. In the shadows, mission controllers at the CIA and French DGSE must put differences aside and work together to avert potential disaster.

• The Veil has a deeply engaging story
• Elisabeth Moss and Yumna Marwan are excellent leads
• The Veil has swift pacing
• The supporting characters are too one-dimensional
• The Veil starts off strong, but starts to get stereotypical

The theme carries into the explanation of why Elisabeth Moss' Imogen (a Shakespearean-inspired name choice) is so good at what she does. Her methods don't require lots of bloodshed or torture, although she is more than capable of causing great bodily harm. She is no James Bond , going into every situation with unchecked bravado and guns blazing.

The show would have benefited more with a narrative solely focused on [Moss and Marwan's] dynamic, but it devolves from its promising start into becoming a spy thriller that aligns with stereotypical expectations. It's entertaining but equally disappointing.

Instead, she is a social player, blending in, gaining the trust of whoever is her target and getting her targets to open up to her. This skill set is why she is faced with the mission of getting Adilah El Idrissi (Yumna Marwan), a potential ISIS operative, to reveal who she is and what she is capable of.

The Veil Is At Its Best When It Focuses On It's Leading Ladies

Creator Steven Knight's distinctive narrative prism in The Veil places a strong emphasis on dialogue and the calculated choices Imogen makes to gain Adilah's trust or unravel the truth behind a potential terrorist threat. While the show includes obligatory fight sequences and heart-pounding action to maintain momentum, its most captivating moments occur when the two women, each other's mirror image, engage in a psychological tug-of-war to achieve their objectives. With this dynamic at the core, The Veil cannot succeed without Elisabeth Moss and Yumna Marwan.

It is difficult to tear your eyes away from the duo as they navigate their situations. The show would have benefited more with a narrative solely focused on their dynamic, but it devolves from its promising start into becoming a spy thriller that aligns with stereotypical expectations. It's entertaining but equally disappointing. The other characters are one-dimensional and the least interesting elements of the show. However, Moss and Marwan are so good at what they are tasked to do — from the taut game of cat-and-mouse to the intense action, they're so committed that they elevate the narrative exponentially.

The Veil (2024)

The veil has room to grow stronger, despite being a miniseries, the ending doesn't remove the possibility for more.

Luckily, the show moves at a swift pace. Six episodes, each under an hour, are a dream come true. Most shows of this nature feel belabored by episode 4, but The Veil narrowly escapes that fate because it is merciful in its length. The concept of veiled truths, the duality of people and places, and the leading performances are compelling enough to keep us engaged, and I suspect it will find fans long after it is over.

FX is known for its compelling dark dramas and on-the-edge thrillers, and The Veil could find its footing as it continues. Or better yet, since the show does have an actual end (not too definitive to shut down the possibility of a continuation), it could become an anthology series that follows women in espionage from across the world, introducing culture, nationality, ethnicity and more into the equation when exploring the role of women in the spy game.

The concept of veiled truths, the duality of people and places, and the leading performances are compelling enough to keep us engaged...

The Veil is far from perfect, but it is engaging. It has enough good ideas to keep us amused, right up to its bloated finale. It may lose sight of what works best as it comes closer to its end, but for what it's worth, the themes and characterization of our two leading ladies are crafted well enough to make for an overall satisfying viewing experience. The Veil reaffirms Moss as a tour de force actress, and establishes Marwan as a star in the making.

The first two episodes of The Veil premiere on Hulu on April 30, with subsequent episodes airing every Tuesday thereafter.

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