trek roscoe 8 vs 9

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

(descending)

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

TREK ROSCOE 9 REVIEW

Review by JP Purdom | Photos by Sam Noble

When it comes to mountain bikes, it’s no secret that a lot of people are on the overbiked end of the spectrum, or perhaps relying on their suspension to get them down a trail instead of their technical ability. Hardcore hardtails offer a solution to this, maintaining the stability required to go fast but giving a little less forgiveness that allows riders to separate out their skills from the ability of the bike and improve their riding. It shaves off the cost of a more complex frame plus a rear shock in the process, bringing this capability to a more budget-conscious demographic. The all-new Roscoe is Trek’s most recent answer to an affordable all-around mountain bike, specifically designed to get more people having fun on the trails. The Roscoe is simplicity driven, featuring dependable components, aggressive geo, and of course, no rear shock. Make no mistakes though; with 29” wheels, 2.6” tires, and 140mm of fork travel, the Roscoe is no slouch when it comes to rugged terrain. We were excited to find out how exactly how capable it was out on the trails around Bend, OR.

• 29 x 2.6″ Tires • HTA: 65° • STA: 73.1° • REACH: 470 (Large)

Price: $2,699/£2,200 Website:   Trekbikes.com

THE LAB Like most modern bikes, the Trek Roscoe follows the trend of long and slack with a relatively steep seat tube. This allows for better handling in the rough and better positioning on the climb. Roscoe’s sizing ranges from XS to XL to suit riders from 137cm to 196cm (4’5”-6’2”), with the XS size equipped with 27.5 wheels to better fit shorter riders. Quite a unique and very welcome addition to the size range is the “ML”, which forms a middle ground between the medium and large that should help to avoid quite so much deliberation between the two for riders who sit awkwardly in that size range. The reach on our Large was 470mm and pairs to a generous 644mm stack. The angles are shared across the size range, with a 65° head angle and a 74.7° effective seat tube angle. These numbers don’t take into account the fact that it’s a hardtail and therefore the angles steepen when on the bike, giving a slightly more upright climbing position but quicker steering than you may expect. A 6.1mm static BB drop (4.5mm on XS) and 430mm chainstays round out the numbers, giving a suitably all-rounded mentality.

Helping to keep the retail price down, the Trek Roscoe is only offered in their Alpha Gold Aluminum. The frame features a tapered head tube, internal cable routing with guides within the frame, ISCG 05 tabs, a threaded BB, and Boost 148 spacing. Trek paid attention to the frame protection, with good coverage on the chainstay and a generous downtube guard. Within the front triangle you can run two bottles thanks to the provided mounts. The Roscoe is offered in 4 different build kits ranging from $1149.99 to $2699.99. Trek says the Roscoe is the perfect choice for the rider who wants to get out and enjoy some gnarly terrain, without the maintenance and cost of a full suspension bike and backs it with their Lifetime frame warranty.

The Roscoe 9 we tested came equipped with some of the industry’s most reliable, robust, and affordable parts. The Fox Rhythm 36 comes equipped with the easy-to-tune GRIP damper, as well as the tried-and-true EVOL air spring. The XT derailleur and SLX shifter provide seamless shifting across the SLX 10-51t 12-speed cassette. E*Thirteen supplies a Helix crank with 30t steel chainring and a discrete upper chainguide to keep the chain firmly in place. The Roscoe 9 features quad piston Shimano M6120 Brakes, which should provide plenty of power, especially when matched with a 203mm rotor up front and a 180mm in the rear. Trek chose the TranzX Dropper post, which ranges from 100-150mm, depending on frame size – a 150mm length for sizes ML and above. The rest of our Roscoe 9 came outfitted with Trek’s own Bontrager components, most notably the grippy XR4 tires and Line 30 wheels.

THE DIRT As a staunch downhill and enduro rider, I was very skeptical of the way an aggressive hardtail would handle the trail. After spending a few weeks on board, the Roscoe, all I can say is, “wow”. The Roscoe’s reasonably slack head angle, healthy reach and 140mm fork make this bike extremely capable of tackling everything from flow trails to rock shoots. There were times when I completely forgot I was riding a hardtail because of how comfortable the body positioning is on this bike. The cornering ability is next level, thanks to the balanced geometry and aggressive 2.6” tires. I never found myself washing around in a turn, even in the dry, dusty conditions here in Bend. In the air, the Roscoe is balanced and predictable, even at high speeds.

It was obvious to me that the Roscoe was much more capable downhill than I would have ever imagined; then, when I finished a lap and turned around to pedal back up, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and efficiency of the Roscoe’s climbing position. The 74.7-degree effective seat tube angle makes the Roscoe a joy to pedal, and with the large size build weighing in at just under 30lbs, it gets up the hill without any issues. The XR4’s does a good job at clawing their way up terrain that seems impossibly loose, finding unexpected traction on a number of occasions.

The spec sheet on the Roscoe 9 was also impeccable. The shifting was perfect throughout, the brakes suitably powerful, the tires offered incredible traction, and the price seems pretty spot on given the quality components all round. For an experienced rider, based on Trek’s build sheet, I probably wouldn’t shoot for the Roscoe 6 (which is designed for beginner riders anyways); however, the 7 level and above offer parts more suited for an experienced rider and are available at extremely reasonable prices.

The only real qualms I had with the Roscoe were the grips and the bars – items riders will often look to swap out anyway to get that customised fit. The angles on the bars put a strain on my wrists, causing them to hurt after a good bit of saddle time. The back-sweep, combined with notoriously stiff 35mm aluminum construction, made a bit of discomfort on my first ride. The grips weren’t a significant complaint for me, but I don’t like to wear gloves when I ride, and the Roscoe grips aren’t necessarily suited for sweaty palms. That said, these are minor details on an otherwise dialled ride.

The Wolf’s Last Word

Price: – $2,699/£2,200 Weight: 29.6 lbs Website:   Trekbikes.com

SPECIFICATIONS

CHASSIS Frame: Alpha Gold Aluminum Fork: Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL, GRIP | 140mm

COCKPIT Brakes: Shimano M6120 4-piston Handlebar: Bontrager Line, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm Stem: Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 45mm length Headset: FSA IS-2 Saddle: Bontrager Arvada Seatpost: TranzX JD-YSP18 | 150mm

WHEELS Rims: Bontrager Line Comp 30 Hubs: Bontrager alloy Tires: Bontrager XR4 Team Issue | 29×2.6″

DRIVETRAIN Bottom Bracket: Shimano SM-BB52 Cassette: Shimano SLX M7100, 10-51, 12 speed Cranks: E*thirteen Helix, 30T | 170mm Shifter: Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed Derailleur: Shimano XT M8100, long cage

Surprisingly capable Balanced geometry Comfortable climbing position Reasonable price

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First Look: 2022 Trek Roscoe Hardtail

Cool Features

• Trek Roscoe 9 review

by Daz Hall February 3, 2022 2

• Price: £700 frame only, £2,300 as tested
• From: trekbikes.com
• Tested by: Darren Hall

The Trek Roscoe 9 features in our ‘Going to unextremes’ bike test

The Roscoe comes in three flavours, the 7, 8, and top spec 9 on test here. All three models share the same Alpha Gold aluminium Boost frame featuring ISCG mounts, a threaded BB, and internal routing for both gear and dropper cables. It’s a shame all colours aren’t available across the models as the splattered Matte Quicksand/Olive Fade/Black colour reminds me of a particularly horrific paint job my parents did on our kitchen in the ’80s, and it would be good to have more than the crimson alternative. The lack of colour options is more than mitigated by 12-speed SLX/XT/e*thirteen drivetrain and 4-piston Shimano brakes, and at £2,300 this won’t break the bank either. I know there’s a big debate around what represents good value in these inflation-fuelled times, but it doesn’t take much effort to find similar bikes at higher prices, and if this is too much then the lower spec 7 and 8 models provide excellent opportunities for saving money at £1,400 and £2,000 respectively.

At 5ft 9in tall I often suffer from frame size anxiety as a result of straddling medium and large sizes so it’s good to see that the Roscoe adds a M/L size to the standard small, medium and large. The very short and very tall are also catered for with XS and XL versions, although the XS has 27.5 wheels to keep everything in sensible proportion. We’re testing a large here, which is slightly beyond Trek’s recommendations for my height, but those used to longer bikes will not find any issues with opting for the larger size, and this is made easier by the low-slung top tube which provides loads of standover clearance. Shorter riders may find it a little less obvious which size to choose, due to the significant overlap in recommended height between the M and M/L. I would always go for the larger size in this case, but a careful decision may be required if you’re in this range.

The frame itself is something of a beast. The oversized downtube and thick rear triangle provide a stiff and supportive base for ploughing through rocks and roots and maintaining control through the roughest of terrain, although this suggests the rider will need to cope with the physical demands of such a direct and unforgiving platform. If this isn’t a problem though and you’re up to the job of pushing the Roscoe to its limits, then the double side chainstay and downtube guards provide protection from flying rocks to prevent any damage. The rear brake caliper is also partially protected by what can only be described as a rather radical bend in the left chainstay to enable the caliper to be placed on the inside of the frame, although this does raise the possibility of interference with pedalling at the rear of the stroke. There was just enough clearance with my size 9 shoes to avoid any unwanted impacts or rubbing, but larger-footed riders might want to check this out.

If the geometry and overall burliness of the frame left any doubts as to the gnarly intentions of this bike, those can quickly be dispelled on consideration of the rest of the spec. It’s not unusual for trail bikes at around the 140mm travel category to opt to save some weight with 34mm forks so it’s good to see that Trek have resisted this with the addition of the thicker and stiffer Fox 36 Rhythms. Combined with the 30mm internal Bontrager Line Comp rims and bulky 2.6in XR4 tyres, the rider is left with little doubt that this bike wants to be ridden hard. All this meat does come with a weight penalty however, and at 13.9kg this can hardly be called lightweight for a hardtail. That really shouldn’t matter though for a trail bike which is clearly aimed at the more aggressive rider, and thankfully Trek seems to have considered this with the addition of the higher power four-pot Shimano M6120 brakes, and a twiddly 30T chainring to winch you to the top of the hill.

The first thing you notice when sitting on the Roscoe is that the uber-trail characteristics suggested by the geometry and the specs are even more in evidence when meeting it in person. This doesn’t quite qualify for the hardcore hardtail category, but the slack head angle, upright position and fat tyres have you instantly thinking about where the closest steep and rowdy trails might be. This isn’t a bike to be riding around forest roads or reservoirs with the family. Although if you were to do that, you’d possibly spend most of your time looking for cheeky unmarked trails and random opportunities to huck it off contrived drops and other obstacles. In fact, it’s so robust and confidence-inspiring you can probably ride it anywhere you like whether a trail exists or not. It’s quite literally a bike that can get you into trouble, in more ways than one.

When you do find some trails worthy of the Trek Roscoe, you’d best be ready to commit to them because the ride is somewhat unforgiving. On rough rocks and roots your thighs and core will receive a proper workout as they as they absorb the shocks that at the front are being sucked up by the excellent fork. For any skiers out there, it’s a bit like the first day on the slopes after a long lay-off. The large tyres compensate a little if you run the pressures low (< 20psi), but then you run the risk of dinging the rims so tyre inserts might be an advisable first upgrade. The stiffness does have its benefits though if you have the physique and athleticism to take the hits. Trail obstacles and debris are no match for the Roscoe, and the 36mm forks, tyres and frame combine to provide a bulldozer-like character if you have the confidence to take advantage. On the very steepest trails the 36 forks and head angle come into their own and the front wheel maintains traction very well if you don’t hang off the back, but it could possibly benefit from a longer dropper to keep the saddle out of the way and encourage you to keep the front wheel weighted.

On tamer terrain, the Trek Roscoe is no slouch either, and I was torn as to whether it prefers man-made or natural terrain. Hardtails are often my go-to option for trail centres and places where I know there’s a smoothish hard-packed surface, and the Roscoe excels in this environment as well as it does on the rougher stuff, albeit with a very different character. Here the wide tyres and the active Fox Rhythm forks smooth out bumps very effectively, providing a fast and flowing ride with little sign of the bone-jarring stiffness exhibited on more technical trails. It’s probably a little vague in the steering due to the head angle and length on the tight and twisting courses you’ll find at manmade areas, but a little effort in wrestling it around corners compensates for that and encourages you to ride the bike rather than acting as a passenger.

Given the previous comments about the Trek Roscoe aggressive and bulky character while going downhill, it won’t come as any surprise that I haven’t talked much about its climbing ability. Not that it’s terrible at going uphill. The stiffness of the frame, the weight and grip offered by the XR4 tyres, and the stable climbing position provided by the 74.5° seat angle will get you up pretty much anything, and the more technical the better. But you’ll need the power and fitness to do it with any type of speed. Most riders will take advantage of the twiddly 30×51 bottom gear, and that’s fine for most uses. The comfortably upright riding position will even facilitate long days in the saddle or marathons/enduros – just don’t expect to be breaking any records in the process.

As the most gnarly trail shredding bike in this test, it won’t surprise anyone that the Trek Roscoe is biased in favour of the rowdier type of riding. Aggressive, strong and physical riders are perfectly placed to get the best out of this bike, and it will reward those who like a full-body workout rather than simply testing their legs on fire road climbs and then recovering on descents. It also does just enough of the milder type of riding to make it an all-rounder in a loose sense of the word. Ride this bike enough, though, and those from the tamer end of the spectrum probably won’t stay there for very long as the Roscoe will either amplify or bring out the inner thug.

Check out all our mountain bike reviews

• Frame: Alpha Gold Aluminium
• Fork: Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring, 140mm travel
• Hubs: Bontrager Alloy, Boost 110/148mm
• Rims: Bontrager Line Comp 30
• Tyres: Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 29×2.6in
• Chainset: e*thirteen Helix, 30T
• Rear Mech: Shimano XT M8100
• Shifter: Shimano SLX M7100, 12-speed
• Cassette: Shimano SLX M7100, 10–51, 12-speed
• Brakes: Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Stem: Bontrager Elite, 35 mm, 0-DEG, 45mm
• Handlebars: Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
• Seatpost: TranzX JD-YSP18, 150 mm travel
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails
• Size Tested: L
• Sizes Available: XS, S, M,ML, L, XL
• Weight: As Tested 13.9kg/30.6lb

See the complete data set for this model (Members only)

Trek Roscoe 9

Canyon Spectral 125 CF 8 – The DATA

Santa cruz 5010 gx axs / rsv / carbon c / mx – the data, ibis dv9 xt – the data, specialized status 160 – the data, specialized s-works turbo levo sl : data, specialized turbo levo sl comp carbon – the data, review info.

Daz got into mountain biking by accident, quite literally. After falling off a cliff in the Peak District while climbing and nearly killing himself, he decided something safer was probably a good idea, so bought a mountain bike some time around 2004. It sat in his flat unused for about 6 months until a mate bought one too, when a whole new world of excitement was discovered by pushing it up unrideable climbs, and falling off unrideable descents in the Peak District. In the rain. Fast forward 10 years, several bikes, countless injuries and scrapes, and a lot more fitness and skill later, his Mrs told him if he wanted any more bikes he had to buy a bigger house in which to put them. At which point he moved to Todmorden, and randomly bumped into a bunch of magazine types who have the good fortune to do this sort of thing for a living. Somewhere along the way he also acquired a masochistic love of winter endurance racing, and as a result can be found riding his bike on ‘training’ rides in the dark and the drizzle, when everyone else is huddled in front of their wood burner. This provides excellent bike and kit testing/breaking opportunities and we try to keep him busy doing just that.

• This topic has 2 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 11 months ago by weeksy .

Proper boost at last! I liked the look of previous ones but not the weird 141QR rear spacing they went for.

Anyone ever buy a Roscoe ? I’ve got one on my HMMM list currently for local stuff. Not sure if i’ll press the button but i was looking at a few HTs and this is enough i terms of travel/fun, but a better weight than the others i’d shortlisted (Orange Crush and Ragley Blue PIg).

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Trek Roscoe 8 Review: Will This Work for You?

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If you are in the market for a new mountain bike, my Trek Roscoe 8 review is going to show you the ins and outs of this hardtail bike and what it can handle.

Made by Trek who is one of the biggest bike brands and has been for a number of years, you’ll find out just how good this bike really is and decide if you think it’s the right bike for you.

I’ll go through the main features of the Roscoe 8, who it is suited for, what alternatives are out there, and finally if it is worth the money or not.

Bottom Line Up Front: The Trek Roscoe 8 is a fantastic hardtail bike that can handle a number of environments. For the price it has a wide range of features and combines this will stellar performance from responsive braking, control, a lightweight design and decent speeds too.

Roscoe 8 is a trail hardtail for anyone looking to have some serious fun out in the dirt. Its 27.5+ mid-fat tires, a wide-range 1x12 drivetrain, and 120mm suspension fork make it a blast on every trail, from packed singletrack to the loose stuff. It's a laid-back trail mountain bike dressed in a high-quality spec that's ready to party.

Table of Contents

How does Trek stack up against other companies?

Trek are one of the biggest bike brands in the market and they have been trading for nearly 50 years now – they were created in 1975.

Based in Wisconsin but with a global reach, they have evolved into a massive manufacturer of mountain bikes across the world. They’ve even sponsored many individuals and biking teams over the years too. They have a wide range of bikes ranging from hardtail bikes, gravel bikes, triathlon bikes and have even branched out into the electric bike market.

What kind of bike is the Roscoe 8

The Trek Roscoe 8 is a hardtail bike . This means that it has no rear suspension but instead relies on a front suspension. They are made to handle difficult terrain and generally have a tougher architecture overall than some other bikes.

The lack of a rear suspension means that the overall weight of the bike is reduced which can help with control while the design helps durability. These types of bikes tend to pick up speeds quicker too and given their performance, they often cost less than many other bikes for what you get.

We’ll look at the price of the Trek Roscoe 8 later on but even though it isn’t the cheapest bike you can buy, it is very affordable.

The Main Features of the Roscoe 8

What is the Roscoe 8 made from?

The frame on the Roscoe 8 is made from aluminum – Trek’s Alpha Gold aluminum to be exact – and it is one of the sleekest and best frame designs I’ve seen.

It’s understated but stylish at the same time. The bike also comes in a variety of sizes such as 13.5, 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21.5, and 23 inches so you should be able to find one to suit your height, riding style, and comfort level.

The aluminum frame will mean that it is a bit heavier than bikes made from carbon. The overall weight of the Roscoe 8 is about 14.5 kg however it means that it is less expensive than carbon bikes. In the old days, aluminum bikes had a reputation for being harsh and even though it might have been warranted then, the tech has come a long way and they perform very well compared to their carbon counterparts.

What are the wheels like?

The bike comes with 27.5 plus size tires which have been designed to help with grip and to cushion those bumps and rough terrain that you’ll likely be using the Roscoe 8 on. They have a feeling of being ‘glued’ to the surface which will undoubtedly raise your confidence of tricky trails.

The standard mountain bike tires that it comes with are the Maxxis’ Rekon 27.5×2.8 tubeless tires. Using tubeless tires means you can run these are a lower pressure which will improve contact with the surface and aid performance. They are also less susceptible to flats when out on the trail which is a big bonus.

What other features does it have?

As I mentioned above, the Trek Roscoe 8 hardtail bike comes in a variety of sizes that range from 13.5, 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21.5 to 23 inches. The air spring fork means you can adjust the air pressure to match your weight and offer better performance than coil springs.

The Roscoe 8 uses an SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed drivetrain while there is also a Bontrager Arvada saddle at 133 mm width. The bike has Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes which provide great stopping power and control.

The default color of the Roscoe 8 is matte back with red and a marigold fade however we’ve seen lighter colors such as grey too. Either way, the design of the bike means it looks great regardless of its shade.

How does the Trek Roscoe 8 perform?

Down to the part you really want to know – how does the Roscoe 8 actually perform when out on the trail?

In a couple of words – very well.

The bike can handle tough terrain and trails easily. Its light frame means you have a large degree of control over where you are riding while the brakes make for quick stops and slow descents if you need them.

The suspension makes bumpy roads and trails a breeze to drive on and the drivetrain means you can shift easily to pick up speed. It might not be the ideal for consistent and long road journeys as you’ll hit maximum speed quicker than you think but for mountain hiking and trails, it is more than ideal.

What are the specs of the Roscoe 8?

These are the main specs that you need to know about with the Trek Roscoe 8.

What warranty will I receive if I buy it?

Trek bikes come with a lifetime warranty for the original owner for the frame sets (frame and rigid fork) while there is between a 1 and 4 year warranty on other parts. Trek also provides warranty on other mountain biking gear and accessories if you buy these extra.

What’s the price range of the Trek Roscoe 8?

As far as affordable bikes go, the Roscoe 8 fits firmly in the category of being a bit of a luxury bike with higher performance but also very affordable for most people.

It costs $1789.99 for the bike. It is a bit steeper than some other hardtail mountain bikes that I’ve reviewed in the past, however, it makes up for it with great performance. If you have a bit of cash to splash out on the Roscoe 8 then you’ll be getting a superior bike than many other models that are cheaper and also in the same price range.

You probably won’t need to remortgage the house to buy it but it isn’t necessarily in the category of purchasing on a whim for most people.

Trek Roscoe 8 is suited for people who…

• Want a superior hardtail bike for a decent price
• Enjoy riding on tough terrain
• Also, need a bike for occasional road use
• Prefer aluminum frames over carbon
• Want good control and speeds

Trek Roscoe 8 is not suited for people who…

• Prefer carbon frames to aluminum
• Want a cheaper entry-level bike
• Do a lot of road biking rather than mountain biking

What do users think of Trek Roscoe 8?

Overall the Roscoe 8 has been very well received by those who enjoy mountain biking and riding on rough trails. The brakes provide very good stopping power and are responsive too so you get a great deal of control. While the aluminum frame is a bit heavier than a carbon frame, many people prefer this extra bit of weight.

Its smooth ride and easily shifted gears means it is not only at home on a trail but also on normal road surfaces as well. There are reports that you’ll need to fine-tune the drivetrain to get the most out of it.

You might not get the same speeds in an urban environment as other bikes out there but that isn’t its primary purpose. While it can be a versatile bike its main role is on tough terrain.

The Pros and Cons of the Trek Roscoe 8

• Strong and durable bike for taking off-road
• Great hardtail bike that can handle tough environments
• Responsive brakes and a good level of control and traction
• Offers a comfortable ride across various terrain
• Affordable price for what you get
• Drivetrain needs to be fine-tuned for the best performance
• The aluminum frame might put some people off

FAQs About Roscoe 8

The Roscoe 8 frame is made from aluminum which is slightly heavier than carbon.

The Roscoe 8 can accommodate 27.5″ x 2.8″ or 29″ x 2.4″ tires.

If you want, yes. It doesn’t have the same speeds as come bikes that are made for road riding but it offers a comfortable ride on smooth surfaces.

While there are some differences between a gravel bike and a hardtail bike, the Roscoe 8 can perform well for both purposes and across various terrain.

There is a lifetime warranty for the original owner for the frame sets (frame and rigid fork) while there is between a 1 and 4 year warranty on other parts.

The bike is available in 13.5, 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21.5 and 23-inch sizes.

What are the best Trek Roscoe 8 alternatives?

#1 trek marlin 6.

The Trek Marlin 6 is a good bit cheaper than the Roscoe 8 so if you’re on a budget then this bike is a good alternative.

The Marlin 6 also has an aluminum frame similar to the Roscoe 8 so while it won’t be as light as a carbon bike, it certainly won’t feel heavy or a drag to get around the trail. The aluminum frame is durable too.

The bike has Bontrager Connection 32-hole double-walled wheels which can fit 27 inches or 29-inch tires giving you a couple of options. The tires on the bike are the Bontrager XR2 which are a reputable mountain bike tire and favored by many riders.

Other Features

With the Marlin 6, you’ll get Tektro M290 disc brakes as well as a 24-speed drivetrain so you’ll be able to find the right balance when out on the trail. Some people have said that the bike can be a bit stiff and unresponsive at times however overall it is a worthy competitor to the Roscoe 8. Not only is it cheaper but it performs well across various terrain as well although without the same level of performance as the Roscoe 8.

The Marlin 6 is a GREAT budget pick to get started. An excellent all-around mountain bike, with room for plenty of cusomizations and upgrades later. Only if you need it.

Bonus: If you want to find more about Marlin bikes, check all about the Marlin 4 , Marlin 5 , and Marlin 7.

#2 Diamondback Overdrive

Another alternative that you can consider if you want to save a bit of money is the Diamondback Overdrive.

Another aluminum-framed bike, the Overdrive has a 29″ Butted 6061-T6 Aluminum frame. The design alone is really nice and it is a stylish bike. OK, it isn’t a carbon model but if you are after an aluminum frame to cut down on the cost it is a good bike.

The Diamondback Overdrive comes with 26” MTB style tires that will give you decent control on a number of different terrain from off-road trails to urban riding. They don’t perform as well as the Roscoe 8 but again you’re sacrificing some performance and quality for the cost.

Other features

You’ll get a Diamondback Seatpost and trail saddle which is fairly comfortable while the 21-speed gears gives you several options for speed. Overall this is a good bike and for the price, it is one of the best in the market. If you can afford to spend a bit extra you should but for a tight budget, this is a good hardtail bike.

The classic returns this year with 27.5” wheels, 24 speeds, a plush four-inch Suntour suspension fork, and powerful disc brakes. Big knobby tires grip every root and rock, keeping you confident and in control as you explore the trail. Whether you're a diehard hardtail aficionado or looking for a solid starter mountain bike, the Overdrive doesn't disappoint.

Conclusion – is the Trek Roscoe 8 worth buying?

The Trek Roscoe 8 is a fantastic bike to ride whether you are tackling some hard terrain on a mountain trail or heading off on an afternoon ride on flat roads.

It isn’t as versatile as some other mountain bikes that are on the market however if you want a truly versatile bike that can handle anything you throw at it then you’d be better off looking at the Ibis Hakka but you’re going to pay more money.

The Roscoe 8 performs really well when out on the trail. I like its control and traction and it offers responsive brakes that work great across a number of surfaces. You’ll get comfort from bumps and shocks while the frame is durable too.

Some parts do need a bit of fine-tuning such as the drivetrain and you’ll top out in speed on normal surfaces a bit quicker than many people would want but it does perform admirably in most situations. It isn’t the cheapest bike out there in its category but what you pay that bit extra for is performance and the Roscoe 8 brings that and more.

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Trek Roscoe 9 first ride review

Really well-sorted and enjoyable all-rounder

Mick Kirkman / Immediate Media

Guy Kesteven

Trek’s plus-tyred hardtail is a really fun and versatile, fully-featured package for the price.

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Trek Roscoe 9 specifications

• Frame: ‘Alpha Gold’ aluminium
• Fork: RockShox Recon TK w/ lockout and 15mm Maxle axle, 120mm (4.7in) travel
• Drivetrain: Shimano SLX M7000 w/ Race Face Æffect cranks and Shimano Deore XT M8000 rear mech (1x11)
• Wheelset: SUNringlé Duroc 40 SL rims on Bontrager hubs
• Tyres: Schwalbe Rocket Ron Performance TLR Addix 27.5x2.8in
• Brakes: Shimano M365, 180/160mm rotors
• Bar: Bontrager, 760mm
• Stem: Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 65mm
• Seatpost : Bontrager dropper
• Saddle: Bontrager Evoke 1.5
• Weight: 13.6kg / 30lb, large size without pedals

Trek Roscoe 9 frame

The Roscoe frame is shared across five bikes (three men’s, two women’s) and it’s a super-versatile chassis. Trek’s shaped, tapered ‘E2’ head tube combines with flattened, hydroformed main tubes to form a stiff but not stinging front end.

Tapering, bridge-free chainstays and seatstays help the bike skim where you’d expect a slam and give tons of tyre space, and the Boost-width (148mm) QR back end can take 29er wheels in place of the stock 650b hoops if you want.

There’s internal cable routing for a Shimano side-swing front mech in case you want to go twin-ring, two sets of bottle bosses, rear rack mounts and even a kickstand platform.

Trek Roscoe 9 kit

While the £1,000 Roscoe 8 and £800 7 use fixed posts, the 9 gets a 125mm-stroke Bontrager dropper, which also makes use of the internal routing. Add Shimano gears with a low-ratio 28t Race Face chainring, a 760mm bar and a 15mm-axled, 32mm-legged, 120mm-travel RockShox Recon fork, and you’re looking at a good package for the price.

Despite having a large choice of wheel and (particularly good) tyre options from its Bontrager in-house brand, Trek has opted to equip the Roscoe with 40mm (internal) SUNRinglé rims and fast-rolling, dual-compound Schwalbe Rocket Ron 27.5x2.8in tyres.

Trek Roscoe 9 ride impressions

Plus tyres are a great idea on a trail hardtail. As long as you get the pressures right (I’d suggest starting at 15psi on this particular set-up, going slightly higher for heavier riders on rockier trails and lower for lighter/smoother use), that extra air volume out back sucks up hits to save your rims and rump on tougher trails.

It keeps more rubber on the ground more of the time, too, which means better grip for a given tread pattern and compound. Counter-intuitively, the way bigger tyres deform over and around rocks and roots rather than bouncing off them also means they roll faster on rough ground once you’ve got them going.

That’s certainly the case here, as the Roscoe holds speed really well and never felt draggy. The big tyres also hide the primitive fork damping pretty well, and while the geometry isn’t radical (a 68-degree head angle, 440mm reach and 1,155mm wheelbase on the large), you can properly rag the Trek on natural trails or nurtured red routes.

While a shorter stem would give a more agile feel, the 65mm stock one works okay with the head angle and bar width. The tyres (and rims) are tubeless ready, so it’d be easy to add even more smoothness and puncture proofing. They’re fairly lightweight, though, and working them hard through turns creates carcass stress marks almost immediately.

Once you start pushing into black-rated territory, you begin to reach the limits of the brakes and the fork’s compression control too. And on techy climbs you need to sit on the saddle nose to offset the very slack 71-degree seat angle and stop it looping out. But none of that got in the way of me having a right good laugh on the Roscoe whenever I rode it.

Trek Roscoe 9 early verdict

Versatile rather than radical in geometry terms, but a properly fun, well-balanced all-rounder.

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2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

If you’re looking for an affordable mountain bike that can help you tackle any terrain the 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 could be the answer you are searching for.

The world-renowned bicycle manufacturing company, Trek, has recently released their new flagship mountain bike – The Roscoe 9. Filled with advanced features and innovative technologies, this mountain bike promises a safe and smooth ride.

Whether you’re a beginner or a more seasoned cyclist, the 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 offers riders of all abilities the perfect combination of performance and comfort. In this review we take an in-depth look at the modern features, design and specs of the Roscoe 9 to determine whether it is worth its price tag.

The Trek Roscoe 9 is the latest addition to the trail hardtail lineup. It features a 140mm travel fork coupled with 29×2.6″ tires, to provide just enough cushion and rollover capability for when you hit the trails.

The bike also comes equipped with an aluminum frame, wide-range 12-speed drivetrain, powerful brakes, plus modern components that offer amazing comfort and capability.

Whether you’re in search of high speed or tight turns, the 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 can take your ride to the next level.

Explore your world with the Trek Roscoe 9, a rugged and capable mountain bike capable of conquering multiple terrains.

This reliable hard-tail bike is designed with an aggressive geometry to help you tackle steep inclines and features a supple 120mm rear suspension for extra cushion against rough terrain.

With wider tires to increase contact patch and excellent hydraulic brakes for precise control, this bike pushes your limits with ease—perfect for bikepacking or general exploration on the trails. 

– Alpha Gold Aluminum frame maximizes stiffness while maintaining lightweight design

– Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring front fork with 140mm travel

– TranzX dropper post allows you to adjust saddle height easily on the fly

– 29×2.6″ Bontrager XR4 Team Issue tires provide increased traction and contact patch

– Internal cable routing ensures cables are out of sight during your ride

– Shimano drivetrain offers smooth shifting no matter what terrain you’re riding on

– 29” Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready wheels roll fast over loose rocks and dirt

– Excellent Shimano 4-piston hydraulic brakes allow precision control while descending

The Trek Roscoe 9 frameset is built from lightweight Alpha Gold Aluminum and includes a Fox Rhythm 36 140mm travel fork with for efficiency on smooth surfaces.

Thanks to its sloping top tube construction and ample tire clearance, you can hit steep hills without issues and enjoy agility on tight turns as well.

This mountain bike comes equipped with a Shimano SLX 1×12 Drivetrain that offers plenty of range for conquering steep trails thanks to its 30T crankset paired up with an impressive 11-51T cassette combination.

While most Trek bikes come equipped with a Shimano crankset the Roscoe 9 comes with an impressive E*thirteen Helix crankset. 

The Roscoe 9 is fitted with Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes that deliver powerful stopping power through their 180mm rotors regardless of descendance gradient or trail condition.

Not only have these brakes been designed to efficiently dissipate heat throughout long descents but they come fitted with four-pot calipers configured in each wheel set; helping ensure secure adhesion between brake pads whether tackling abrupt corners or absorbing surprise descent changes at unexpected moments!

The 2023 Trek Rosco 9 proves just why it continues its reign into 2023 as one of the most popular trail bikes around; equipped with world-class frame technology backed by quality components it is impossible not to have fun out on every single ride – making it ideal for those who are looking for maximum thrills out on every ride!

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

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Trek Roscoe 9 Review

• one of the best bikes in this price range
• strong climber
• better shifting than the direct competition
• 25 years warranty

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Roscoe 9 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (Trailhardtail up to 3000 €) ⬤ .

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 2599 €.

Expirience with the Trek Roscoe 9

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

• Frame Roscoe
• Frame Material Aluminium
• Fork Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Kabolt axle, 140mm travel
• Spring Unit air
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Gearrange 510%
• Drivetrain 1x12
• Gear Lever Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
• Rear Derailleur Shimano XT M8100, long cage
• Crank Size: S, M, M/L, L, E*thirteen Helix, 30T steel ring, 73mm spindle length, 52mm chainline, 170mm length; Size: XL, E*thirteen Helix, 30T steel ring, 73mm spindle length, 52mm chainline, 175mm length
• Cassette Shimano SLX M7100, 10-51, 12 speed
• Chain Shimano Deore M6100, 12 speed
• Brake Set Size: S, M, M/L, L, XL, Shimano M6120 4-piston hydraulic disc; Size: S, M, M/L, L, XL, Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, M6100 lever, M6120 caliper
• Brake Rotors 180/180
• Wheel Set Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 28-hole, presta valve
• Front Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle
• Rear Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, 6-bolt, Rapid Drive 108, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost148, 12mm thru axle
• Tires Front Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.60''
• Tires Rear Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.60''
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138mm width
• Seat Post Size: S, TranzX JD-YSP18, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 361mm length; Size: M, TranzX JD-YSP18, 130mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 425mm length; Size: M/L, L, XL, TranzX JD-YSP18, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 470mm length
• Stem Size: S, Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 35mm length; Size: M, M/L, L, XL, Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 45mm length
• Handle Bar Size: S, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 750mm width; Size: M, M/L, L, XL, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
• Handle Bar Width 780
• Head Set FSA IS-2, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

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"I'm stoked"

"I think it's the best looking bike in it's price range, the fit works great for me, and the drivetrain is excellent."

"Ready to rumble"

"Has the chops to squeeze every last drop of fun from local park trails, plus the talent to conquer black diamond terrain on the weekends."

"Much more capable downhill than I would have ever imagined; then, when I finished a lap and turned around to pedal back up, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and efficiency of the Roscoe’s climbing position."

"5 out of 5"

"One of the best we've ever tried at this price. So fun and capable it makes boring trails interesting and difficult trails manageable. "

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Results have arrived, the best trail hardtail: specialized fuse expert 29 vs. trek roscoe 9.

The Specialized Fuse 29 and Trek Roscoe are the two most popular aluminum trail hardtails on the market. We compare the best-selling 2023 Fuse Expert 29 and Roscoe 9 models to see which mountain bike is best.

Written by: Bruce Lin

Published on: Nov 14, 2023

Posted in: Guides

What’s the best mountain bike to get if you’re on a budget? The answer is an affordable and versatile trail hardtail. Trail hardtails are simple (there’s no rear suspension) so they’re cheaper and easier to own and maintain. But with relaxed geometry and a longer travel fork, they can handle a wide range of terrain from fast flow trails to steep and gnarly downhill tracks.  

The two most popular models in the trail hardtail category are the Specialized Fuse Expert 29 and the Trek Roscoe 9. They’re best sellers and they come with decent mid-range components so they won’t need any upgrades. But how do they stack up against one another? We compare these two do-it-all hardtails to find out. 

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1. Specialized Fuse vs. Trek Roscoe: Overview

Both bikes use aluminum frames with threaded bottom brackets, internal cable routing, two bottle cage mounts, and 29” wheels. Both weigh right around 30 pounds, which is fairly standard for entry- to mid-level aluminum hardtails.

Both use TransX dropper seatposts. Other than the drivetrains, the biggest difference between the two bikes is in the forks. The Fuse comes with a 130mm Fox Rhythm 34 while the Roscoe uses a 140mm Fox Rhythm 36. The Fox 34 is lighter because it has thinner 34mm stanchions compared to the Fox 36 which uses 36mm stanchions. On the flip side, the Fox 36 is a bit stiffer and has more travel than the Fox 34, which keeps it a bit more plush feeling and composed on rough terrain. The Fox 36 caters more toward aggressive downhill riding while the Fox 34 is a bit more balanced for all-around trail riding. 

One other feature worth noting is the sliding rear dropouts on the Fuse. This gives riders the option to adjust the chainstay length or set the frame up as a single speed. 

2. Specialized Fuse Expert 29 vs. Trek Roscoe 9: Component Comparison

• Frame: Both frames are nearly identical in terms of construction and quality. I prefer the adjustable rear dropouts of the Fuse, however, because it gives riders more adjustability, plus additional options for fixing backcountry mechanicals or trying a future singlespeed build. Winner: Fuse
• Fork: Both use Fox Rhythm forks with the basic Grip damper. I tend to prefer the stiffer Fox 36 chassis because I ride more rough and technical downhills. Winner: Roscoe
• Drivetrain: SRAM GX vs. Shimano SLX/XT are both super solid and reliable. I’m a SRAM user, and I like that the Fuse has a 52t granny gear (vs. 51t) and it doesn’t use a third-party crankset (the Roscoe uses an e*thirteen crank). Winner: Fuse 
• Brakes: Both bikes have 4-piston brakes for extra stopping power. I personally prefer the feel of SRAM brakes to Shimano. Winner: Fuse
• Wheels: Both bikes use entry-level alloy wheels with 29mm internal rim widths and basic hubs. There’s really nothing to choose between these wheels, but I like that the Bontragers aren’t generic and at least have a model name… Winner: Roscoe
• Dropper: Both bikes use basic TransX droppers with similar travel for the various frame sizes. I’m going to give this to the Roscoe though because it uses the more common 31.6mm size versus the oversized 34.9mm dropper on the Fuse. It will be easier to replace or upgrade in the future. Winner: Roscoe
• Weight: With the stock build, the Roscoe is about a pound lighter. Winner: Roscoe
• Price: The Roscoe retails for $400 less. Winner: Roscoe

Final Score

• Fuse Expert 29: 3
• Roscoe 9: 5

It looks like the Roscoe beats out the Fuse by a couple of points, but keep in mind that these points are mostly based on my personal tastes and are pretty subjective.

Some features may also be more important to some riders than others. For example, the sliding rear dropout is the standout feature of the Fuse to me, and it’s the main reason I’d pick the Fuse, but many other riders likely won’t care about it. 

3.  Specialized Fuse vs. Trek Roscoe: Geometry Comparison

The Fuse and Roscoe use very similar geometry. The biggest difference between the two frames is the head angle. The Roscoe’s 65-degree head angle is 1.5 degrees slacker than the Fuse (which also gives the Roscoe a ~20mm longer wheelbase). What does this mean? In the most basic terms, the Roscoe will feel more stable while the Fuse will feel more agile. Both bikes can handle a very wide range of terrain, but if you’re regularly riding steep and fast downhill trails, the slacker Roscoe will feel a bit more confidence-inspiring. The Fuse, on the other, will feel less sluggish on climbs, and more lively on flat or rolling trails. 

Both bikes have decently steep seat angles to put riders in a good position over the cranks on steep climbs, but the Roscoe’s seat angle is slightly steeper, which some riders might prefer (though I honestly don’t think that 0.7 degrees will make that big of a difference). 

The other notable difference is in the stack height. In every size, the Fuse has 5-10mm less stack height. This can be important to riders who want to run a lower bar height for XC riding. 

Note that the Fuse has a range for chainstay length because of the sliding rear dropouts. It can be adjusted to be both shorter (more agile) and longer (more stable) than the Roscoe. 

Finally, it’s worth noting that the Roscoe is also available in an additional M/L size. This could be good for riders who feel like they are between the medium and large sizes. 

4. Concluding Thoughts 

With a lighter Fox 34 fork and slightly steeper head angle, the Fuse should appeal more to riders who lean more toward the XC side of the riding spectrum. For riders more interested in the enduro and downhill side of the spectrum, the bigger Fox 36 fork and slacker head angle of the Roscoe will be more appealing.

As for value, the Fuse Expert 29 and Roscoe 9 have very comparable specs, so the Roscoe is the better value with a retail price that is $400 less. 

What would I pick? Personally, I’d choose the Fuse. As I’ve already mentioned, I’m a SRAM fan and I like having a sliding rear dropout so I can convert the bike to a singlespeed someday in the future. What would you choose?

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Is Trek Roscoe 8 A Good Bike?[Trek Roscoe 8 Review]

Table of Contents

Trek Roscoe 8

• Price : $2399
• Category : Hardtail off-road
• Frame : Aluminum
• Gear: 1×12
• Tires: 27.5×2.60”

What we like about it: The tall enough touring tires have a smooth grip, making for a smooth ride on every trail.

What we don’t like about it : Less choice of body color.

Rating (4.6/5)

Introduction

Do you want to descend from steep rocks or ride fast enough on layered trails? If so, you can’t go wrong with the Trek Roscoe 8, which is a boon to any novice mountain biker. First, the Trek Roscoe 8 is equipped with touring tires that can easily handle the smooth rocks and roots of the trails, while the grippy 2.6-inch tires improve traction. Secondly, the 140mm suspension fork makes for a smooth ride on every trail. Whether it’s a narrow single-track trail or a muddy yellow trail, it provides the best ride.

We have a two-month riding review of the Trek Roscoe 8. To make the results more informative for you, here we will elaborate on the performance, key features, components, and specifications of the Trek Roscoe 8 while riding. As well as other versions of the series. If you want to know more about the versions, please refer to our review.

Trek Roscoe 8 Climbing

High-quality parts, high-quality fun. the Trek Roscoe 8 makes itself stand out from the rest of the trail bikes with its high-value design. We spent two months at Whistler Mountain Bike Park for a rock climbing review. Here we rode a variety of twisting and winding trails and steep rock faces. Tires crushed over protruding tree roots and huge rocks.

The aluminum frame has a lighter build and the 41.5cm stack value makes it easy for me to maintain a stable stance. In terms of comfort, Trek Roscoe 8 also has unique insights. The Bontrager XR4 tires with 120tpi are designed to handle mountainous terrain and are compatible with all kinds of rugged and winding terrain. In addition, the puncture-resistant design of the tires allows me to avoid the wear and tear of sharp debris. This is also due to its strong enough appearance.

At the same time, it is worth mentioning that I did not feel too much bumpiness during the ride. This is mainly due to the extra-long travel of the 140mm RockShox 35 shock fork, which counteracts a lot of the vibration during the ride, while the dropper at the seat tube also provides some assistance in damping. After our measurements, we found the solo air spring to be much lighter than the average coil spring.

The SRAM NX Eagle 1×12-Speed drivetrain has a top-of-the-line configuration and is extremely lightweight. For the final kilometer of the sprint, I shifted to the lowest gear to get a faster ride.

Trek Roscoe 8 Descending

What will Trek Roscoe 8 do in the drop? Our team was also on the ground for a month of measurements. We conducted drop after drop test on the soft ground with dead trees

The design of the internal alignment makes the body look very simple and smooth, while the internal structure is simple enough. As a stealthy tool in descending sections, the 65° head tube angle can give me the ultimate descending experience. Even on bumpy gravel roads, I don’t feel the tendency to lean forward. Instead, I can maintain the stability of the body easily.

In addition, the RockShox fork’s solo air spring was easily and quickly adjusted to my weight, and thanks to it, I was able to counteract a lot of the bumps caused by severe vibration. Of course, it does much more than that, as the fork is equipped with a locking feature that temporarily locks the suspension. 

As a result, I was able to get an extremely efficient power transfer. This is why I was able to have a faster sprint in the final sprint.

It is worth mentioning that I had to face many obstacles when weaving in and out of the mountains and forests. This tests the rider’s reflexes and takes into account the braking ability of the bike even more. Halfway up the mountain, I came across an old tree that had fallen.

Fortunately, the Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc has excellent braking ability. The metal brake pads combined with the 4-piston calipers made of ceramic allow for a complete stop the moment the pull cable is sensed. This was a pleasant surprise to me.

Main F eatures

The Trek Roscoe 8 does not follow the trend of choosing carbon for the body but still chooses a more expensive material. But the effect of its hard shell is also excellent, with layers of laminate making it tough enough while making the body extremely light.

Not only that, but the artistic matching between the drivetrain, brake, and locking will also impress you in terms of appearance. Moreover, the design of reducing the rear shock absorber simplifies the body structure even more and is more in line with the aesthetics of minimalist lovers.

Of course, like any other bike, the Trek Roscoe 8 is available in every size to suit your preferences. In addition, a proper water bottle is added to the downtube to ensure you are well-hydrated on the trail.

The Trek Roscoe 8 doesn’t make a big breakthrough in terms of geometry, but still maintains a moderate size. First of all, the seat tube angle of 74.7° is a relatively appropriate size for the trail ranks. But, a too-loose or steep angle might be a hindrance going uphill. I prefer a moderate angle range of 68-73°.

Secondly, the Trek Roscoe 8 has a shorter front and rear wheelbase (1,181mm) compared to similar off-road vehicles. Of course, this is not to say that the short wheelbase is not good, on the contrary, the shorter wheelbase will help you maintain more responsive steering under sharp corners. This gives me a big boost in overtaking in corners.

Component s and  Specifications

Sram gx eagle, 12-speed drivetrain.

SRAM is a brand I trust, and I feel it is the best quality mountain bike. Like the XX1 Eagle and X01 Eagle, the GX Eagle also has the same 500% gear ratio range and even has the same combination of cassette. This is an essential feature in trail riding. What’s more, the stamped aluminum discs, steel rivets, steel springs, and cast aluminum body provide ultra-smooth, precise, and durable performance. From a few months of riding experience, I have a few complaints.

The SRAM GX Eagle, 12-Speed has unparalleled shift smoothness, so you can choose the right gear for different road conditions. And because it’s made of aluminum, you don’t have to worry about the chain jamming due to frequent shifting, it’s much stronger than you think. At the same time, its rear chain paddle adopts advanced speed control technology, which makes your speed control more smooth and silky.

Bontrager XR4 Tires

First of all, the 27.5×2.60″ wider and thicker tires allow me to maintain a strong grip even on rocky and wooded descents, and the 120tpi parameter specification can also meet the maximum riding requirements.

Secondly, the Trek Roscoe 8 will help you get the best performance by ditching the tubes and going tubeless. As a result, you can spend the least amount of physical energy for the most traction. And it will help you get more control and a smoother, faster ride on rough mountain riding.

From over two months of riding, the Bontrager XR4 has given me a very solid riding experience. Because it has a rougher surface, it allows for fast travel even in steep and rugged rocky conditions.

RockShox 35 Gold RL Fork

The Trek Roscoe 8 is equipped with a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork, which has DebonAir air springs with powerful shock absorption to adapt to all kinds of complex terrain. Even in the face of various muddy and slippery ground, it can be sensitive enough to ensure safe travel according to the rider’s manual braking. There is also 140mm ultra-high travel, which is a great help to comfortable driving.

Not only that, but the remote locking of the Trek Roscoe 8 is also a major selling point for it being a breakout product. By locking the movement of the fork, although it loses some of the damping function, it is more conducive to putting the kinetic energy generated during the ride to rational use instead of wasting it, which also greatly improves riding efficiency. This has also been well received by purchasers of the bike.

Other versions of Trek Roscoe

To give you more possibilities in your choice, and in the spirit of objectivity and impartiality, we have reviewed the other models in the Trek Roscoe 8 series and conducted some time-riding tests, including the Trek Roscoe 6.

Compared to the Trek Roscoe 6, the Trek Roscoe8 has been significantly improved. This is firstly reflected in the design of its shape, the latter aluminum body makes it a lighter frame. And the SRAM 1×12-Speed system it uses gives you a huge boost in riding ability. The Trek Roscoe8 gives you the most stable sprinting ability, whether it’s wet and rainy or thorny mountain roads.

At the same time, the Trek Roscoe 8 will be more ride friendly in terms of tire choice. This also means that you can choose not only 27.5″ tires but also the wider 29″ tires. I think this will give you a higher level of confidence and courage when dealing with difficult roads.

Overall, the Trek Roscoe 6 is perhaps the most friendly price for the novice rider. But if you’re a bit more demanding on the trails, you might want to try the Trek Roscoe 8. Although the Trek Roscoe 8 has a higher price tag, it also has better performance.

Learn More: Trek Roscoe 6 Review- A Qualified Novice Hardtail Bike

What we like about it

• The lightweight aluminum body provides the ultimate stable riding experience.
• The 140mm RockShox 35 Gold Fork is guaranteed to be unique in terms of shock absorption.
• The SRAM NX Eagle 1×12-Speed drivetrain gives you butter-smooth shifting.
• The powerful 4-piston brake has a very superior performance.
• Wide, heavy tires provide a smooth ride.

What we don’t like about it

• A heavier-weight body.
• Sparse color selection.
• Expensive component prices.
• What is the price of the Trek Roscoe 8?

The Trek Roscoe 8 is priced at $2399.

• What is the body material of the Trek Roscoe 8?

The body of the Trek Roscoe 8 is made of aluminum.

• What is the tire size of the Trek Roscoe 8?

The Trek Roscoe 8 has a tire size of 27.5×2.60”.

Trek Roscoe 8 Specs

Comparison T able

Trek roscoe 8 vs marin team marin 2.

The two are very similar in many ways, including the use of an aluminum frame and the same 29″ tire size. However, the Trek Roscoe 8 has a longer travel (140mm) on the damping fork. This allows it to face bumpier roads during actual riding.

What’s more, the Trek Roscoe 8’s 140mm RockShox 35 Gold fork comes with a locking mechanism. When you want to get faster, you can lock the fork completely and avoid the kinetic energy loss of the fork working to get faster.

In addition, both bikes are 1×12 shifting. I didn’t feel any significant difference in the smoothness of the shifting and speed changes. However, the Marin has a higher price tag for a similar performance. Therefore, based on various considerations, I would recommend the Trek Roscoe 8 as the more cost-effective bike.

Learn more : Is MARIN SAN QUENTIN 2 Worth Buying? [MARIN SAN QUENTIN 2 Review]

Trek Roscoe 8 vs KHS BNT 29

The KHS BNT 29 has a 2x drivetrain option compared to the Trek Roscoe 8’s 1× shifting system. In our actual riding, I would prefer the Trek Roscoe 8’s 1× shifting system. Because easy enough shifting will reduce my time and improve my riding efficiency.

In addition, the Trek Roscoe 8 features a 140mm RockShox 35 Gold fork shock. It will make your ride relatively easier, even on bumpier terrain. Although the KHS BNT 29 has a relatively short 120mm fork travel, it may not perform as well as the Trek Roscoe 8 on bumpy terrain. However, in our tests, the KHS BNT 29 had a relatively smooth body and speed (30mph). If you are looking for more speed, then the KHS BNT 29 may be a better choice for you.

If, however, you are more focused on adventures over bumpy ground, the Trek Roscoe 8 would be a good choice.

Learn more : Is KHS AGUILA Worth Buying? -[KHS AGUILA Review]

Trek Roscoe 8 vs Vitus Sentier 29 VRX Mountain

The fork of the Fox Performance Float 34 is the secret killer of the Vitus Sentier 29 VRX Mountain. Lightweight, excellent reliability, and a moderately long axle all combine to give the Vitus Sentier a smooth ride, and its consistent reliability and reasonable price are the reasons for its continued popularity. But in the real world, the Trek Roscoe 8 with 140mm fork travel makes me more comfortable on bumpy roads.

In terms of drivetrain choice, both Trek Roscoe 8 and Vitus Sentier opted for the more popular 1× gearing. Compared to the 2× shifting system, the 1x system will have better smoothness and simpler operation. If you do not want to have too many complicated speed shifts, then the 1× drivetrain is more suitable for you.

It’s worth noting that the Trek Roscoe 8 has 27.5×2.60” Bontrager XR4 Team Issue tires for more nimble cornering traction in the face of tight turns.

So I think the Trek Roscoe 8 is worth a try if you need to tackle more winding routes.

Learn more : Is Vitus Sentier 29 VRX Splendid? – [ Vitus Sentier 29 VRX Review ]

Trek Roscoe 8 vs Trek Roscoe 9

The Trek Roscoe 9 is an upgrade from the Trek Roscoe 8. The RockShox 35 Gold RL fork is an all-around improvement over the Fox Rhythm Float 36. With its lighter mass and better damping, you can take the Trek Roscoe 9 on a rocky trail adventure deep into the woods. If you think the 29-inch tires will be a hindrance to your speed, then I’m sure the 27.5-inch tires will be a great choice for you. The Trek Roscoe 9 has more freedom of choice when it comes to tire size. You can choose the right tire size according to your riding habits.

If you also think Trek Roscoe 9 is good, you can try it out at your local store. Of course, don’t forget that it has a more expensive price tag than the Trek Roscoe 8.

In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!

Learn More: Conqueror Of The Flow Trail-Trek Roscoe 9 Review

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