trek 3500 review

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Trek 3500 Mountain Bike: Is it Worth Your Money?

October 2, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Trek 3500 is an entry-level mountain bike, optimal for beginners, with a durable Alpha Silver Aluminum frame.
• Key features include Shimano TZ31 derailleurs, SR Suntour suspension, and Bontrager LT3 26x2.0 tires for varied terrains.
• While suitable for trail riding and light off-road use, more experienced riders may seek upgrades for technical trails.

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‍ If you’re looking for a mountain bike that offers a balance between performance and affordability, the Trek 3500 is worth considering.

The Trek 3500 is a solid entry-level mountain bike from a reputable brand. It offers a durable frame with a lifetime warranty, making it a reliable choice for casual and regular riders. While components do need periodic replacement, the bike’s value and longevity make it worth the investment.

This entry-level bike has garnered quite a reputation among riders, especially those starting in the world of trail riding. But is it worth your money? Let's delve into what makes the Trek 3500 a popular choice. All information has been gathered through personal tests using this bike in real-world situations.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Overview of the Trek 3500 Mountain Bike

The Trek 3500 mountain bike is a popular entry-level choice for those who want a good bike without breaking the bank. It's designed with the beginner rider in mind and offers a comfortable and enjoyable ride on various surfaces, including local trails and gravel paths.

One of the most notable features of the Trek 3500 is the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, which provides a lightweight yet sturdy build that's suitable for tackling your first trail rides.

Additionally, the bike is equipped with an SR Suntour suspension fork, which helps to smooth out the ride and absorb bumps along the way. This is particularly beneficial for those new to mountain biking who may be more sensitive to trail conditions.

So, let’s look closer at the key Trek 3500 features to help decide whether it’s worth the investment.

Key Features of Trek 3500 Mountain Bike

The Trek 3500's drivetrain and components are built around dependability and ease of use. Shimano TZ31 front and rear derailleurs, combined with a wide range of gears, make it simple for beginners to navigate varied terrain without feeling overwhelmed.

Regarding braking, the bike utilizes linear-pull brakes, which are well-suited for new riders as they are easy to control and maintain. Overall, the Trek 3500 mountain bike is a great bike, and here’s why.

Frame and Suspension

The Trek 3500 mountain bike is built with an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame that's suitable for beginners. This lightweight frame offers great stability and durability. Its semi-integrated head tube helps make the bike more comfortable to ride.

The bike has an SR Suntour suspension fork, ensuring a smooth ride on various terrains.

Gears and Brakes

This mountain bike is equipped with Shimano components for seamless gear shifting. The bike's Shimano TZ31 front derailleur and a reliable rear derailleur offer a range of gear combinations, perfect for tackling various trail conditions.

The Trek 3500 features linear-pull brakes that offer strong stopping power and control, ensuring safety on technical trails and during fast descents.

Wheels and Tires

The Trek 3500 mountain bike's wheels are designed for rugged trail riding and enhanced performance. It boasts knobby tires, specifically Bontrager LT3 26x2.0 tires, that provide excellent traction and control on a variety of surfaces such as dirt, gravel, or rocky trails.

Keeping proper tire pressure will enhance the bike's performance, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride.

Design and Aesthetics

The design of the Trek 3500 combines style, functionality, and comfort. It features a clean and streamlined geometry, making it an appealing choice for beginners and experienced riders.

The bike's components, such as the Wellgo nylon platform pedals, 25.4mm 30mm rise handlebars, and comfortable Bontrager SSR saddle, make it an enjoyable ride for longer periods on local trails or commutes.

Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Performance

In our experience, the Trek 3500 mountain bike has proven to be great for entry-level mountain biking and trail riding. The Trek 3500 is also suitable for commuting and road bike usage, providing versatility for any type of rider. Let's look at how it does in terms of performance.

When riding on a single-track trail, the Trek 3500 performs well thanks to the knobby tires and solid frame. The bike comes equipped with Bontrager LT3 26x2.0 tires, providing good traction on a variety of surfaces.

However, on more technical trails, you may notice the bike falling behind some other bikes in the same category, partly due to the SR Suntour fork's limitations. For an entry-level mountain bike, the components play a crucial role in the Trek 3500's performance.

Most Trek bikes also feature a Shimano TZ31 front derailleur and rear derailleur, ensuring a reliable gear-shifting experience. The wellgo nylon platform pedals offer a good grip for better control on the trails.

When it comes to stopping power, the Trek 3500 has rim brakes, which might not provide the same level of performance as disc brakes but are still sufficient for beginners. One important aspect to keep an eye on is tire pressure. Maintaining the right pressure can greatly affect the bike's performance.

The Trek 3500 bike comes with a 25.4mm 30mm rise handlebar and a comfy Bontrager SSR seat. This bike is designed with a geometry that allows riders to have a relaxed and enjoyable ride, whether it's a casual commute or a gravel-filled mountain biking adventure.

Pros and Cons of Trek 3500 Mountain Bike

The Trek 3500 is a great entry-level mountain bike that's perfect for those who are new to the sport. One of the key features of this bike is its Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, which is light, durable, and comfortable for trail riding.

Its Bontrager LT3 26x2.0 knobby tires provide excellent traction on various terrains, making it an ideal bike for local trails. The SR Suntour suspension fork absorbs shock from rough surfaces, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.

The Shimano TZ31 front derailleur and Shimano rear derailleur provide a wide range of gears to tackle uphill climbs and downhill descents easily. Additionally, the Wellgo nylon platform pedals are durable.

You also have the Bontrager SSR 25.4mm 30mm rise handlebars, ensuring a comfy and stable ride grip. Overall, it's a good bike for beginner mountain bikers and those looking to enjoy trail riding without breaking the bank.

While the Trek 3500 is a great bike for new riders, it may not be the best choice for more experienced mountain bikers or those looking to tackle technical trails.

The rim brakes on this bike may not provide the same stopping power as hydraulic disc brakes found on higher-end models, especially in wet or muddy conditions.

The Trek 3500 is primarily designed for trail riding and light off-road use, so those seeking a more versatile bike for both road and mountain biking may want to consider other options.

Its entry-level components may also not hold up due to the wear and tear of tackling more challenging trails. More experienced riders may find themselves quickly outgrowing this bike and wanting to upgrade to a better bike in the same category.

That being said, the Trek 3500 still offers a solid ride for beginners and those looking for an affordable option in the world of mountain biking.

How Long Will The Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Last?

The Trek 3500 mountain bike's lifespan depends on factors like usage, maintenance, riding conditions, storage, and accidents. While it's an entry-level bike from a reputable brand, its durability is enhanced by a lifetime warranty on the frame.

With moderate use and proper care, it can last several years. Expect 5-10 years of dependable service for daily commuting or light trail rides. However, rigorous mountain biking might necessitate more frequent component replacements, even if the frame endures.

It's crucial to note that while the frame might be covered, parts like tires, chains, and brake pads will wear over time. Storing the bike in dry conditions and regular maintenance will optimize its longevity.

Verdict: Is the Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Worth Your Money?

It's clear that this is a great bike for entry-level riders and more experienced cyclists alike. Perfect for trail riding, this mountain bike can handle steep climbs and tough single-track trails, making it a versatile option for various terrains.

It offers knobby tires for good grip on dirt, gravel, and rough surfaces, ensuring a smoother ride when tackling technical trails. This bike comes equipped with Shimano TZ31 front and rear derailleurs, providing consistent gear shifting across its 21-speed gear system, even on rocky terrains.

Additionally, the terrain versatility is further complemented by its Bontrager SSR 26x2.0 wheels, a strong frame, and wellgo nylon platform pedals for added comfort and support

The SR Suntour fork on the Trek 3500 Mountain Bike adds to the comfortable ride regardless of the trail conditions. It may not be a high-end mountain bike, but considering its price point, it delivers a solid and enjoyable performance.

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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Trek 3500 review

A solid option for beginners

T he 3500 isn’t just Trek’s entry-level option, it’s also the company’s cheapest adult bike of any kind. That’s likely to attract buyers just looking for something to get about on, but the 3500 is very much a mountain bike.

Ride & handling: Confidence-inspiring neutral handling

Trek have stuck to tried and tested geometry with the 3500 to good effect – it’s a confident ride with a good blend of stability and agility. The cockpit is a little shorter than some of the competition, which is arguably a little more user-friendly for the beginner but will start to feel cramped as your experience grows.

The 3500 isn’t unduly heavy overall for its price (14.2kg/31.3lb), but somehow feels less lively on the trail than the best of the other bikes at this price. Part of that is down to the generally higher gears, but the Trek also carries a bit more of its weight in its wheels. Because wheels spin, you have to accelerate them round as well as forward, so weight there and in the tyres is more noticeable than in the frame. The rubber rolls fairly easily, which helps.

Frame: Thoughtfully-designed and well finished chassis

Trek definitely win the paintjob prize here, with a classy Matte Candy Orange finish that resembles the anodising found on more expensive bikes. The beauty isn’t just skin-deep, either: the frame underneath is very tidily put together.

There aren’t any constructional gimmicks, just useful things like a flared down tube, slimmed-down head tube and an open-ended gusset beefing up the join between them. At the back is a wishbone seatstay, with rack and mudguard mounts present and correct. All the cables route along the underside of the top tube out of mud’s way and you’ll find two sets of bottle bosses inside the main triangle.

Equipment: Gear range is more suited to off-dirt use

The colour-matched fork is a neat touch, although the fork itself is fairly unexciting. The SR Suntour unit is all-steel, with skinny stanchions, a welded-on brace and simple spring/elastomer internals. It’s heavy, flexible and bouncy but – critically – if you’re not used to a decent suspension fork then you’re unlikely to notice.

The 3500 has a Shimano MegaRange 13-34T freewheel with a big drop down the oversized big sprocket. Up front, Trek have opted for a 28/38/48T setup on the Shimano chainset. That makes all the gears rather high, which is a mixed blessing. On the downside, steep climbs are more challenging and that 38T middle ring means you’ll be spending a lot of time on the bigger sprockets out back. You won’t have to spin your legs off downhill or on the road though. On balance, lower gears would be better for the trails.

There are lots of bits from Bontrager, Trek’s in-house component brand, on the 3500 including the big Bontrager LT3 tyres. They’re listed as 2in, but they’re quite tall for extra trail-smoothing volume. The tread pattern is at its best on hard surfaces, with a shallow tread but some worthwhile side knobs.

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Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Review

The Trek 3500 mountain bike is a great bike that makes a perfect entry-level mountain bike for trail riding, steep climbs, and general riding. This mountain bike is the perfect bike for riders of all levels. 

It features a sturdy frame, knobby tires, a Shimano chainset, and a wishbone seatstay. These aren’t the only features that make this one of the best mountain bikes on the market, there’s plenty more to see and enjoy on this great bike. 

This review will help you get a better idea of what to expect from the Trek 3500 mountain bike.

Mountain bikers depend on their bike frames to be strong yet flexible and capable of dominating any type of terrain. This bike definitely does not disappoint in that department. 

The frame of these bikes is a lot sturdier than other bikes. It is also lightweight, which makes it great for going on local trails. 

The slimmed down head tube helps keep it light and improve handling and control. The high roll stem also helps make the setup of this bike more comfortable and helps improve the stability.

The welded-on brace of the bike adds a level of safety and improved handling. The high center also makes the bike easier to balance and the top tube is located lower on the bike for a comfortable ride. 

The Trek 3500 frame is suitable for riding on hard surfaces and is held together with an all-steel main triangle that balances the bike with an established frame and keeps the weight distributed evenly during your mountain trek. 

You might expect the steel frame to be heavy and hard to control, but that’s not the case with the Trek 3500. You can still maintain full control and easily lift, carry, and store your bike.

If you want a bike that handles the trails perfectly, the Trek 3500 is ideal. Whether you are trying to find the perfect angle for an uphill climb or want to pedal through a big drop on the trail, you want to know that your bike will stick to the path and be easy to control on all types of terrain.

Riding on an adult bike means you need to use your weight with the movement of the bike to help keep traction. 

Mountain biking is all about mastering the trails and the Trek 3500 was built for such a challenge. Whether riding on harder surfaces or more softer types of terrain, it handles it all without missing a beat and helps riders stay safe and in control.

The suspension of the Trek 3500 mountain bike is very impressive. The suspension fork of the Trek 3500 creates a super smooth ride so you are less likely to feel the bumps and twists in the local trails as you ride them. 

If you are someone who prefers a simple and clean ride, this is a good bike for you. The coil spring is something you can expect to find on most mountain bikes and is one of the reliable components that let you know you are getting a good quality bike even at a great price. 

If you enjoy a light singletrack ride and need to have complete balance and road coverage, this road bike is one to consider.

Wheels and Tires

This is a great bike with a superior wheel and tire set. You can expect to find Bontrager wheels that really up the performance of the bike.  

The tread pattern is unique, and the shallow tread allows the bike to grab the ground or terrain more easily for nimble handling even for entry-level riders. This treat also makes it easy to maintain proper tire pressure while you ride. 

The Bontrager-approved wheels spin freely and the rear derailleur makes it easy to keep them going while you shift gears. The bigger sprockets are perfect for the attractive SR SUNTOUR unit and unique fork and add an element of style to the functionality of the bike.

It’s all about consistency and easy acceleration when it comes to the Trek 3500 pedals. Whether spinning through lower gears or higher ones, these pedals will allow you to get there smoothly. 

The semi-cartridge bearings allow the pedals to move flawlessly without catching, and there are multi foot drops so you can adjust the pedals to fit you better and make riding more comfortable. Slip on a pair of Bontrager SSR shoes and pair them with the Trek pedals—Wellgo nylon platform pedals—and you are ready for some serious biking. 

Brakes  

While it can seem like mountain biking is all about speed and movement, there’s going to be times when you need to stop and stop fast. In these situations, you will appreciate the disc brakes that help the mountain bike stop super efficiently. 

These brakes are much nicer than the outdated rim brakes still found on other mountain bikes. The brake pads are smooth and allow the bike to stop without a lot of jolting and bumping. 

All the cables of the brakes are tucked up tightly around the frame and bar roll to ensure they are out of the way. There’s no need to worry about feeling them brush against your hands or feet while riding the bike.

Mountain biking is all about fun and the Trek 3500 has a variety of accessories that fit it well. You can easily attach a variety of bottle bosses to the main bar or the fork of the frame too so you stay hydrated while out on the trails. 

There are a few other details that make this bike stand out on the trails. 

The candy-colored paint finish is noticeable and vibrant, and the unique tire tread stands out when the bike is moving and parked. But the rear derailleur Shimano gear is the real star of the show that sets the Trek 3500 apart.

Whether you are new to mountain biking or an experienced rider looking for a bike that has it all, be sure to go for a test ride on the Trek 3500. It’s a good bike for riders of all levels and it has amazing features that allow it to glide down the trails at top speed. 

There are a lot of great bikes on the market, and it can be tough to choose the right one. The Trek 3500 is a well-rounded option that should be at the top of your list when shopping for your next mountain bike.

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Trek 3500 review

• by Cyclesgo

T he 3500 isn’t just Trek’s entry-level option, it’s also the company’s cheapest adult bike of any kind. That’s likely to attract buyers just looking for something to get about on, but the 3500 is very much a mountain bike. Trek have stuck to tried and tested geometry with the 3500 to good effect – it’s a confident ride with a good blend of stability and agility. The cockpit is a little shorter than some of the competition, which is arguably a little more user-friendly for the beginner but will start to feel cramped as your experience grows.

The 3500 isn’t unduly heavy overall for its price (14.2kg/31.3lb), but somehow feels less lively on the trail than the best of the other bikes at this price. Part of that is down to the generally higher gears, but the Trek also carries a bit more of its weight in its wheels. Because wheels spin, you have to accelerate them round as well as forward, so weight there and in the tyres is more noticeable than in the frame. The rubber rolls fairly easily, which helps.

Trek definitely win the paintjob prize here, with a classy Matte Candy Orange finish that resembles the anodising found on more expensive bikes. The ktm macina kapoho beauty isn’t just skin-deep, either: the frame underneath is very tidily put together. There aren’t any constructional gimmicks, just useful things like a flared down tube, slimmed-down head tube and an open-ended gusset beefing up the join between them. At the back is a wishbone seatstay, with rack and mudguard mounts present and correct. All the cables route along the underside of the top tube out of mud’s way and you’ll find two sets of bottle bosses inside the main triangle.

The ktm macina kapoho colour-matched fork is a neat touch, although the fork itself is fairly unexciting. The SR Suntour unit is all-steel, with skinny stanchions, a welded-on brace and simple spring/elastomer internals. It’s heavy, flexible and bouncy but – critically – if you’re not used to a decent suspension fork then you’re unlikely to notice.

The 3500 has a Shimano MegaRange 13-34T freewheel with a big drop down the oversized big sprocket. Up front, Trek have opted for a 28/38/48T setup on the Shimano chainset. That makes all the gears rather high, which is a mixed blessing. On the downside, steep climbs are more challenging and that 38T middle ring means you’ll be spending a lot of time on the bigger sprockets out back. You won’t have to spin your legs off downhill or on the road though. On balance, lower gears would be better for the trails. There are lots of bits from Bontrager, Trek’s in-house component brand, on the 3500 including the big Bontrager LT3 tyres. They’re listed as 2in, but they’re quite tall for extra trail-smoothing volume. The tread pattern is at its best on hard surfaces, with a shallow tread but some worthwhile side knobs.

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Trek 3500 Vs 3700 Mountain Bikes (6 Key Differences Explained!)

Trek 3700 is Trek’s mid-range mountain bike. Both bikes are great for trails and cross-country riding.

Trek 3500 is Trek’s entry-level mountain bike. This bike is perfect for beginner mountain bikers. Trek 3700 is Trek’s mid-level mountain bike . This bike is perfect for the intermediate mountain biker.

Trek 3500 Vs 3700 Mountain Bikes

The main difference between the Trek 3500 and 3700 mountain bikes is that the Trek 3500 has a lower price tag and is more suited for entry-level riders, while the Trek 3700 is a bit more expensive and is better suited for experienced riders.

Trek 3500 mountain bike is a granny gear bike. It is good for climbing. The Trek 3700 mountain bike is a high-speed bike. It is not as good for climbing, but it can go faster on flats and downhill. If

Trek 3500 Review

Trek 3500 is Trek’s entry-level mountain bike. This bike is perfect for beginner mountain bikers. Trek 3500 comes with a front suspension fork, which will give you a smooth ride on the trails. Trek 3500 also has 24 speeds, which will allow you to easily adjust your riding speed.

Trek 3500 is available in three different sizes: small, medium, and large.

This bike is perfect for beginner mountain bikers. Trek 3500 comes with a front suspension fork, which will give you a smooth ride on the trails. Trek 3500 also has 24 speeds, which will allow you to easily adjust your riding speed. Trek 3500 is available in three different sizes: small, medium, and large.

Trek 3700 Review

Trek 3700 is Trek’s mid-range mountain bike. Trek 3700 comes with a front suspension fork, which will give you a smooth ride on the trails. Trek 3700 also has 27 speeds, which will allow you to easily adjust your riding speed. Trek 3700 is available in three different sizes: small, medium, and large.

Trek 3700 is Trek’s mid-level mountain bike. This bike is perfect for the intermediate mountain biker. Trek 3700 comes with a front suspension fork, which will give you a smooth ride on the trails. Trek 3700 also has 27 speeds, which will allow you to easily adjust your riding speed. Trek 3700 is available in three different sizes: small, medium, and large.

Trek 3500 Vs 3700 Mountain Bikes: The Key Differences

Although the two Trek bicycles have many similarities, they are not identical. The following is a summary of the main distinctions between them.

Brake System

It’s important to know the difference between the Trek 3500 and 3700 brake systems when shopping for a new bike.

Trek 3500 uses linear-pull or Rim brakes, while Trek 3700 uses hydraulic disc brakes. Rim brakes are less expensive and require less maintenance than hydraulic disc brakes, but they’re not as effective in rainy or muddy conditions.

Hydraulic Disc brakes provide the more stopping power and are less affected by weather, but they’re more expensive and require more maintenance. When deciding between the two, consider your riding conditions and budget.

If you’re primarily riding in dry, good weather conditions, rim brakes may be a good option for you. They’re less expensive than disc brakes and require less maintenance. However, they’re not as effective in wet or muddy conditions.

If you’re riding in varied conditions or off-road, disc brakes may be a better option for you. They provide more stopping power and are less affected by the weather. However, they’re more expensive than rim brakes and require more maintenance.

The Trek 3500 features a coil fork, while the Trek 3700 features an air fork. Trek 3500 has a 75mm travel fork, while Trek 3700 has a 100mm travel fork. Trek 3500 is designed for lighter riders or those who are looking for an affordable mountain bike that can still handle some tougher terrain. Trek 3700 is designed for more experienced mountain bikers or those who are looking for better performance on rougher trails.

The coil fork on the Trek 3500 is heavier, but it also provides more stability and can handle rougher terrain better. The air fork on the Trek 3700 is lighter, but it can also be more easily damaged. Which one is right for you depends on your needs and what type of riding you’re doing.

If you’re looking for a durable fork that can handle tougher terrain, go with the coil fork on the Trek 3500. If you’re looking for a lighter fork that can handle more speed and is less susceptible to damage, go with the air fork on the Trek 3700.

If you need to adjust your air fork but are unsure of what should be the proper PSI for your weight, worry not because Trek provides a suspension calculator for their forks.

Trek 3500 has a front suspension fork, while Trek 3700 features a full suspension system. A full suspension system provides more control and comfort on rough terrain.

The 3500 drivetrain is a bit simpler than the 3700. It’s a 7-speed system with Shimano Altus derailleurs . This option is good for riders who are looking for an affordable, reliable drivetrain.

The 3700 drivetrain is a bit more advanced. It’s an 8-speed system with Shimano Deore derailleurs. This option is good for riders who want a little extra performance and durability.

Both of these systems are good options, but the 3700 drivetrain is a bit more versatile.

Trek 3500 vs 3700 weight is an important consideration when purchasing a new bike. Both bikes are lightweight options, but the Trek 3500 weighs in at just 31 pounds, while the Trek 3700 comes in at 32 pounds. So, which one is the better option for you?

The Trek 3500 is a great choice if you’re looking for a lightweight bike that you can easily lift and transport. It’s perfect for people who want to commute or ride recreationally, but don’t want to compromise on quality or performance. The Trek 3700 is also a great choice, but it may be a bit too heavy for some riders. If

Trek 3500 is available in three different sizes, while Trek 3700 is only available in two sizes. A Trek 3700 is the perfect bike for the intermediate mountain biker. Trek’s mid-range mountain bike comes with a front suspension fork, which will give you a smooth ride on the trails.

When it comes to price, the Trek 3500 is a little cheaper than the Trek 3700. The Trek 3500 is priced at $350, while the Trek 3700 is priced at $467. Both bikes are designed for different types of riders, so it’s important to consider your needs before making a purchase.

However, the Trek 3700 has some features that the Trek 3500 does not have, such as an adjustable stem and higher-quality components. So, while the Trek 3500 may be a little cheaper, the Trek 3700 is the better value for your money.

Stand-Oven Height

The Trek 3500 and 3700 stand-oven heights are nearly the same, but there are some slight differences. The Trek 3500 stand-oven height is 17.5 inches, while the Trek 3700 stand-oven height is 18.2 inches. This may not seem like a significant difference, but it can make a big difference when it comes to baking.

Similarities Between Trek 3500 And Trek 3700

The similarities between the two Trek bicycles are as follows:

Frame Material

Trek 3500 and Trek 3700 are both made of aluminum . This material is strong, durable, and lightweight. This makes the bikes easy to transport and maneuver.

Additionally, aluminum does not rust, which is a bonus for riders who live in wet climates. Both bikes also have a geometry that is designed for efficient pedaling.

This means that the frames are relatively lightweight and have a low standover height. This makes it easy for riders to get on and off the bike, regardless of their size.

Weight And Lifetime Warranty

Both the Trek 3500 and the Trek 3700 share a weight limit of 300 pounds, as well as a lifetime warranty. This means that both trek bikes are built to last, and can handle whatever you can throw at them.

Whether you’re a heavy rider or just looking for a bike that will last for years, either of these bikes will do the trick. So, if you’re looking for a quality bike that will stand up to whatever you throw at it, be sure to check out the Trek 3500 or the Trek 3700.

Both wheelsets use 26 Inches in the front and rear, have aluminum braking surfaces, and come with Shimano® derailleurs.

The Trek 3500 is a bit heavier than the Trek 3700, but they both offer great value for the price. If you are looking for a durable, high-quality wheelset, either the Trek 3500 or the Trek 3700 would be a great choice.

Is Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Worth?

The Trek 3500 and Trek 3700 are both mountain bikes that are designed for different types of riding. They have some key differences, which we will explore in this article.

The Trek 3500 is a basic mountain bike that is perfect for beginners or people who just want to ride around on trails. It has an aluminum frame, 26” wheels, and a front suspension.

The Trek 3700 is a more advanced mountain bike that is designed for people who want to do more than just ride on trails. It has a carbon fiber frame, 29” wheels, and front, and rear suspension.

Is Trek 3700 Mountain Bike Worth?

Trek 3500 Vs Trek 3700 mountain bikes are two mountain bikes that have been on the market for a while.

Trek 3500 is less expensive, but Trek 3700 has some features that Trek 3500 does not. In this article, we compare Trek 3500 and Trek 3700 and explore 6 key differences between these two mountain bikes.

What Are The Frame Materials For Trek 3500 And Trek 3700?

Trek 3500 is made of aluminum, while Trek 3700 is made of carbon fiber.

What Type Of Brakes Does Trek 3500 Have?

Trek 3500 has linear-pull brakes, while Trek 3700 has hydraulic disc brakes.

What Is The Wheel Size For Trek 3500 And Trek 3700?

Trek 3500 has 26” wheels, while Trek 3700 has 29” wheels.

What Is The Suspension On Trek 3500 And Trek 3700?

Trek 3500 has a front suspension fork, while Trek 3700 has a full suspension system.

How Much Do Trek 3500 And Trek 3700 Cost?

Trek 3500 costs around $500, while Trek 3700 starts at around $800.

Trek 3500 and Trek 3700 are two great mountain bikes. Trek 3500 is perfect for beginner mountain bikers, while Trek 3700 is perfect for intermediate mountain bikers.

Trek 3500 has an aluminum frame, 26” wheels, and front suspension, while Trek 3700 has a carbon fiber frame, 29” wheels, and front, and rear suspension.

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Trek 3500 Vs 3700 Mountain Bikes ?

Trek 3500 and 3700 aren’t just entry-level MTBs. These two hardtails have everything to suit even the most experienced trail riders. But how do Trek 3500 vs 3700 compare?  

Trek 3500 comes with linear-pull brakes, a 75mm suspension fork, and a 21-speed drivetrain, while Trek 3700 comes with mechanical disc brakes, a 100mm suspension fork, and a 24-speed drivetrain.

So, essentially, Trek 3700 is a better climber as it offers you more suspension and gears and better brakes. In the end, the advantages make Trek 3700 slightly costlier than Trek 3500.

In terms of weight and stability, however, Trek 3500 scores a massive win as it’s lighter by at least 1 pound and enjoys a shorter standover height that makes it more stable.

But overall, these two hardtails have so much in common, making them almost inseparable. So, we’ll look at the things that separate them and those that make it hard to decide between them (the similarities).

Let’s get started!

Trek 3500 Vs 3700 Table Comparison

Below is a table summary to compare Trek 3500 and 3700.

About Trek 3500 – Trek 3500 Review

Trek 3500 bike in an affordable entry-level hardtail bike with a 75mm SR Suntour suspension fork for exceptional bump absorption. It comes in an alpha aluminum frame, which is pretty lightweight and stronger and enjoys a longer life.  

Trek 3500 is a decent performer off-road, bragging its exceptional high-traction tires, stronger wheels, and decent linear-pull brakes.

The hardtail has a shorter standover height, making it more friendly to shorter people and women, but more importantly, it offers you a neutral handling position.

Moreover, the bike comes with a 21-speed Shimano drivetrain, characterized by a 7-speed cassette and triple chainset to enable you to maneuver across challenging terrains smoothly.

About Trek 3700 –  Trek 3700 Review

Unlike Trek 3500, Trek 3700 promises more suspension, speed, and better disc brakes.

With its 100mm suspension fork, this hardtail allows you to take on just about any terrain. So, if you are a serious trail rider looking for something decent on a budget, you can never go wrong with a Trek 3700.

Its 8-speed cassette and triple chainset give you a combined 24 speeds, making trail riding fun. The gearing enables you to quickly and efficiently shift when taking on different terrains.

As for the brakes, you get a mechanical disc type, which outperforms their linear-pull siblings in performance and life. Their only issue is that they are costlier to maintain and even replace.

Sadly, Trek 3700 does not have the standover advantage that Trek 3500 has. In that case, it has a slightly longer standover height, making it more ideal for taller people. Some shorter people may find it somewhat uncomfortable to stand over. 

Trek 3500 Vs 3700 Differences

Although the two Trek bikes share the most common features, they are not identical. Below is a list of the notable differences between them.

1. Brake System

Trek 3500 comes with Tekro linear-pull brakes, while Trek 3700 features Tektro disc brakes.

Tekro linear-pull lever brakes are decent. They stop on a dime with the correct adjustments, especially on dry surfaces. Their primary issue is that they are less responsive in wet conditions. But cost-wise, they are cheaper to replace than disc brakes.

On the other hand, disc brakes, especially Tekro, are ever-reliable. They stop the bike almost seamlessly and generally offer you better control in all conditions. They are, however, costlier to replace and maintain.

2. Fork Suspension

Trek 3500 comes with a 75mm suspension fork, while Trek 3700 enjoys a 100mm suspension fork.

Overall, a longer suspension travel range promises more comfort over longer periods. Therefore, you can count on Trek 3700 for a smoother cycling experience off-road, more when taking on bumps.

Additionally, it enables you to ride much faster without succumbing to fatigue.

That, however, doesn’t make Trek 3500 a bad choice. No! It’s just that it doesn’t match Trek 3700 off-road, but the bike is a decent performer in other terrains.

3. Drivetrain

This is where Trek 3500 and 3700 differ most, explaining why Trek 3700 is costlier than Trek 3500.

While both bikes offer you a Shimano drivetrain with a triple chainset, Trek 3700 comes with an 8-speed cassette. That gives you a combined gearing of 24 speeds, which is enough to shift across just about any terrain smoothly.

Trek 3500, on the other hand, comes with a 7-speed cassette, which combines with the triple chainset to offer you a 21-speed gearing. While you have fewer gears on Trek 3500, the shifting performance is undisputable, and you may not even realize the difference when riding both bikes.

4. Average Weight

There is at least a 1-pound weight difference between the two bikes depending on the MTB generation. On average, Trek 3500 weighs 31.3 pounds, while Trek 3700 averages 32.5 pounds.   

That makes Trek 3500 more lightweight and thus a better commuter choice as it’s more portable.

5. Stand-Over Height

This is another area where Trek 3500 has an advantage over Trek 3700. Overall, Trek 3500 has a shorter standover height than Trek 3700, making it more beginner-friendly and better for shorter riders.

Though the difference is marginal, it’s easier to stand over a Trek 3500 than over Trek 3700.

However, that is not the only advantage of standover height. A shorter standover height means the bike is more sturdy and offers you a more neutral standing position.      

6. Trek 3500 Vs Trek 3700 Price

Overall, Trek 3700 is slightly more expensive than Trek 3500. On average, Trek 3500 retails at $350.00 while Trek 3700 cost about $467.

So, if you are on a budget, Trek 3500 is the best fit for you.

Similarities between Trek 3500 and Trek 3700

Now, here are the specs that the two Trek bikes have in common

a. Frame Material

Both Trek MTBs feature alpha aluminum, which relishes a few advantages. For one, alpha aluminum is pretty lightweight, making the bikes more comfortable to pedal .

Secondly, alpha aluminum is more fatigue-resistant and stronger. It allows you to load huge weights without yielding to excess stress or fatigue.

b. Weight Limit and Limited Lifetime Warranty

Due to their stronger and fatigue-resistant alpha aluminum frames, Trek 3500 and Trek 3700 all enjoy a 300-pound load capacity. You can count on the bike to hold your vast weight and load, as long as your combined weight doesn’t exceed 300 pounds.

The best part is that Trek warrants the frame for life. You can count on its outstanding strength and performance for as long as you own the bike.

c. Wheelset

Both Trek 3500 and 3700 come with 26-inch wheels with a 2.0-inch width and enjoy the same rim and tire types. Their Bontrager 36-hole alloy rims are sturdy, offering strength and off-road stability.   

On the other hand, their Bontrager connection tires come with a much smoother profile that enables them to roll smoothly off-road. As a result, these bikes are faster on trails.

Trek 3700 Vs Trek 3500 Size

Both hardtail bikes come with the same frame sizes, as shown in the table below:

Other Features

These two bikes also share the following features:

• Riser flat bars for a more upright-position cycling
• Schrader valve for easy pumping
• Water cages and rack mounts
• Nylon platform pedals that are lighter, thus comfortable to use.

Is Trek 3500 Mountain Bike Worth?

Compared to Trek 3700, Trek 3500 falls behind in brake quality, speed, and suspension range. That, however, doesn’t make it a wrong choice. Quite the contrary!

Its 75mm suspension is more than what you get from most entry-level MTBs, making it decent for entry-level cycling.

Its 21 speeds are also more than enough, given that most mountain bikes have fewer gears, and yet they are decent performers. And on the aspect of brake type, though linear-pull v-brakes are not a match for mechanical disc brakes, they are cheaper to replace.

So, yes, Trek 3500 is worth it. Besides, this bike is lighter than its 3700 siblings and enjoys a shorter standover height, making it more beginner-friendly. So, if you are on a budget but looking for a casual trail bike, you cannot go wrong with Trek 3500.

Is Trek 3700 Mountain Bike Worth?

Trek 3700 excels in areas where Trek 3500 fails. For instance, its mechanical disc brakes are better performers than Trek 3500’s linear-pull brakes. Its 24-speed drivetrain and 100mm suspension forks outperform Trek 3500’s 21-speed drivetrain and 75mm suspension fork.

Those reasons make Trek 3700 a better trail riding choice. It also enjoys incredible specs like an alpha aluminum frame, stronger wheelsets, and comfortable handlebars.   

Perhaps the only area where they fall slightly short, especially for shorter guys, is their standover height which is marginally shorter.

That aside, this bike is affordable, making it a decent pick for serious trail riders who are budget-tight but want a proper MTB for their casual adventures.

People Also Ask (About Trek 3500 and Trek 3700)

1. how much is a trek 3500 worth.

Trek 3500 retails at about $350 or slightly higher. However, you can trade in this bike for cheap, almost half price.

2. What Does a Trek 3700 Weigh?

Trek 3700 weighs 32.5 pounds on average (without factoring in the pedals)

3. How Much Is a Trek 3700 Worth?

Trek 3700 costs $467.91 on average, but you can trade it for cheap. You can also get it for almost half price if you buy secondhand on eBay.

4. What Does a Trek 3500 Weigh?

Trek 3500 isn’t heavy for its price. The bike weighs 31.5 pounds.

5. How Many Speeds Is a Trek 3500?

Trek 3500 comes with a 7-speed Shimano cassette and a triple chainset, and the two give you a combined speed of 21.

6. How Many Speeds Is a Trek 3700?

Trek 3700 comes with an 8-speed Shimano cassette and a triple chainset, and the two combine to give you 24 speeds.

Trek 3500 Vs 3700 Closing Thought                    

While Trek 3500 and Trek 3700 have a lot in common, the differences are apparent. On the one hand, Trek 3500 wins the weight and cost battle as it’s lighter and cheaper.

On the other hand, Trek 7300 wins the performance battle as it has better brakes, suspension, and gears.

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Size / 13", 16", 18", 19.5", 21", 22.5", 16"

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha aluminum
• Fork High tensile steel ATB
• Wheels Alloy hubs; Matrix 550 rims; 14G spokes
• Wheel Size 26"
• Tires Bontrager Connection Trail, 26x2.0"
• Crank SR XCC100 48/38/28
• Front Derailleur Shimano C051
• Rear Derailleur Shimano TX50
• Shifters Shimano EF29
• Brakeset Alloy linear pull w/alloy levers
• Handlebar 30mm rise
• Saddle Bontrager Sport
• Seatpost Bontrager
• Stem 40 degree
• Headset Semi-cartridge, sealed

Q: Where to buy a 2004 Trek 3500?

The 2004 Trek 3500 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2004 Trek 3500 have?

The 2004 Trek 3500 has 26" wheels.

Q: What size 2004 Trek 3500 should I get?

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Trek 3500 upgrading ideas...stupid?

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I'm trying to figure out if I'll be throwing money in the toilet if I upgrade our 2011 Trek 3500 size xs (13.5 inch). I bought it new last year for my 12-year-old and I'm pretty sure he'll outgrow it sometime next year. As in the past, the plan is to hand it down to my daughter (she's 10) who will be tall enough in a year or two to ride it. So in total, the bike would be in service for a minimum of 4 years (and possibly much longer if my daughter doesn't grow much). It's Trek's lowest end mtb and all components are cheap and heavy (but work great). I recently changed the crankset to a cheap Acera one with lower gear ratios for easier climbing. My son is not very interested in mtb so he probably wouldn't care about upgrading. However, my daughter really enjoys coming to local trails with me whenever she can so I've been thinking about building or buying a nice bike for her in near future anyway. We do single track and small drops & jumps. I'm beginning to make a plan like the following: Wheels: I found a set of lightweight wheels for a very good price. Brakes: The stock 3500 is set up with v-brakes but the new wheels are for disk brakes. So I'll need new front and rear disk brakes. Cassette: Since the stock rear sprockets are freewheel (threaded) type so I need a new cassette to match the cassette free hub of the new wheels. I'm thinking about 10 speed 11-36t or something. Derailleurs & shifters: With the change in the cassette comes a new 10 speed rear derailleur. I'll have to replace the front derailleur too because I'm thinking about setting it up in 2x10. Fork: The stock SR Suntour is worse than a pogo stick. Rock Shox Recon 100mm, maybe? Does this plan make any economic sense? Except for the frame, I have a feeling that the finished bike would be better speced than the xc/trail hard tail offerings at around $1000, my estimate for the upgrading cost. The problem in buying a used bike is that it's a bit of challenge to find a frame in xs size. What do you all think?  

Does the 3500 even have disc brake mounting locations on the fork and rear triangle? I know when I had one it didn't. May wanna check on that before you spend much more money. You may not even be able to use those wheels.  

No not stupid, I would leave the front derailleur as is though and just go 9 in the back. Keep the parts and put them back on when you need to get a larger frame and sell the old bike.  

I'm interested in how this comes as I was considering a similar project.  

Metol said: Brakes: Shimano SLX M666 Click to expand...

I'm thinking of upgrading my girlfriend's Trek 3500. It's a tank. It seems to weigh a ton compared to my bike. So basically switch out every part for some weight savings.... Do you know what some of the best upgrades were to save some weight?  

The best upgrade for a Trek 3xxx series bike is to replace the frame with any 4xxx series. This will drop a few pounds and reduce the harshness of the ride. The OP found the gears a bit too tall because the 3xxx series bikes are not really intended for xc trails. As a low-end (for trek) entry bike, they are meant to be used on bike paths and trails through relatively flat fields. You can lighten up the 3500 and she will enjoy it as long as you don't let her ride your bike. After all is said and done, though, replacing the 3500 with a 4xxx bike will be a cheaper route, and she will have a better ride.  

I upgraded my wife's old trek for my daughter. normally wheels is where to lose the most weight but I didn't want to put $ into new v brake wheels. I changed the saddle, seatpost, handlebar, stem (from a quill) and dropped some weight -don't remember the exact amount though.  

Good to know someone else did this conversion as well. Was just thinking about doing this to my sons 2013 Trek 3500. I did do the fork last year. I picked up an older SID Race Dual Air for $150 and that dropped 2.5 lbs alone on the bike. Doesn't have lockout though. Even after that upgrade the bike still weighs 29 lbs though. See if I can get it down to under 26. It is a 15.5" frame. Need to find that disc brake adapter for the rear brake. I suppose the only option is mechanical disc brakes. Doesn't look like I can get hoses running to the back unless I zip tie them to the frame.  

Totally agree with your Metol. The cheapest weight savings for me so far was that fork upgrade. I spent $150 on that older used SID and that shaved off well over 2lbs. Having a hard time justifying any weight savings with wheels. The stock wheel set that came with the bike is 2108 grams and that includes the skewer. Having a hard time finding a good price point on saving a pound with the wheel set. Only problem with the stock wheels is upgrading to different gearing and to disc brakes. Need new wheel set or hubs to do that. I haven't completely broken down my sons bike to find out what his 15.5" frame weighs. Have not bought the tool yet to remove the cranks. I do really want to change this out to a 2x9 or 2x10 for him before the end of the race season.  

Stock tires on the 3500 are solid rubber. You can easily shave off 500-600 grams by putting on xc tires. The stock handlebars weight more than 1 lb. Another area you can save a lot of weight is the crank. The original crankset and BB together weigh close to 1300 grams. I got a great deal on an XT crankset and now the bike is down to 24 lb. The extent of upgrades on the 3500 bike really depends on your willingness to upgrade the wheelset. If your son's 3500 is like our son's, the rear hub does not have the disc rotor mount and is also a freewheel hub which is not compatible with cassettes. So the bike needs a new wheelset in order to use disc brakes and run a 2x9 or 2x10 drivetrain. The fact that we were able to acquire a 1600 gram wheelset for $120 was the deciding factor for us.  

Metol said: I got a great deal on an XT crankset and now the bike is down to 24 lb. Click to expand...

Was typing a reply just as you posted so now I have to change my reply. You read my mind about the wheelset. I figure that has to be the first thing decided on. I can't believe you found a 1600 gram wheelset for $120. That is the deal of a lifetime unless you look at this one. 2970 grams with TIRES. Crank Brothers Cobalt UST Tubeless Mountain Wheelset with Tires Blue - Wheels - Mountain But they are sold out now and that is a smoking deal on those wheels. So I am trying to decide on these wheelsets but I think all of them are not tubeless ready but I could put a Stan's Kit on them. Xero Wheel Pair Mtn Shawla 202D 26 8/9S Black - Wheels - Mountain Sun Ringle Ryde Comp 26" Disc Mountain Bike Wheelset MY12 Black - Wheels - Mountain I am leaning towards this one but I am not sure about using the Center Lock. Shimano WH-MT15 QR Centerlock Wheelset | Shimano | Brand | www.PricePoint.com I weighed his tires and tubes last year when I bought the bike. Front Tire 851 grams. Tube 171 grams Rear Tire 869 grams Tube 175 grams So that is about 4.5lbs in tire and tube weight. I use Racing Ralphs on my bike and those weigh in at 535 grams per Schwalbe's website. So yeah if I could get UST rims and go with a better tire I could easily save 2 lbs!!!! If you got a lead on some light weight tubeless ready wheel sets let me know.  

Guess I will add these two wheel sets. Bontrager Race Lite. Bontrager Race Lite MTB Wheel Set 26" Tubeless 6 Bolt Disc 9mm QR | eBay WTB ST i19 TCS Shimano Deore 26 WTB St I19 TCS Shimano Deore 26" MTB Tubeless Compatible Wheelset CL Disc Black | eBay  

Hi Metol. Looking at these handlebars. What do you think of these? Easton EC90 SL 635mm Low Rise Bar 2012 | Easton Going to assume I will have to change out the stem to use this handle bar as well as the Trek website says the 2013 3500 has a 25.4 stem.  

Hey guys, I bought my 3500 not knowing how much I would get into mountain biking, and it didn't take long before I became addicted and started tinkering. I haven't been upgrading for weight, but rather performance and reliability. Here is what I have done so far: Fox Float 32 forks w/120 mm travel (used) Cane Creek 40 headset Spank ***** Stick handlebars Avid Elixir 1 brakes (disc were already on the bike) Kindshock Dropper seatpost Bontrager Racelite Plus lock on grips I don't remember how much, but I know the forks were a significant weight drop as well as the best upgrade so far. All in all these upgrades have made the bike worlds better, and I am currently trying to decide what to upgrade next. I love my 3500 though, and more with each upgrade!  

Webfoot said: Cane Creek 40 headset Click to expand...

Well if you still have the stock tires on the bike you can save a ton of weight and get better performance for about $45 a tire. I put Rocket Ron's on my son's bike. The stock tires weighed 869 grams each. The Rocket Ron's weigh 480 grams.  

Thanks for the suggestion! Are those tubeless? We just moved to Idaho this year and I am having tire issues, so I was thinking of going tubeless. They are supposed to be lighter and tougher, or so I am told.  

If you buy the Evolution line then yes it is Tubless ready. I bought the performance line which is not.  

I have my son's bike down to 26 lbs 9oz. So far I changed the Fork, Handlebars, stem and tires. I just got a smokin deal on X9 components so that will be going on the bike shortly. Also order some Avid BB7 brakes. Yes they are mechanical but they are the best mechanical brakes you can get. I will be changing out the wheels. So basically the only original parts that will be left on the bike is the frame and seat. After two years he has pretty much out grown this frame so all I need to do if find him a bigger frame for next year and then maybe I will put him on a 29er after that.  

I will have to weigh my bike now, you've got me curious about how much it weighs. I was actually planning on buying BB7 brakes until my wife surprised me with the Elixir 1s for my birthday. It won't be long though and the only thing original left on my bike will be the frame too. I don't think I will be moving up in size though, I am happy with 26". I am glad I started with a beginner bike though. It's fun to "build" it myself, I am learning a lot, and I know the what and why for everything on my bike  

My bike weighs 30+ lbs. Wow, I had no idea it still weighed that much. I wonder how much it weighed stock? I had never weighed it at all. Anybody have any idea how much a stock 19" Trek 3500 Disc weighs?  

My son's 16 inch was 32lbs stock. I am kind of surprised you haven't dropped more weight. The stock fork is over 5.5 lbs. When I put on the SID fork it was over a 2lbs savings. Just the few things I changed has saved over 5 pounds and those were easy things to change. Did you go carbon on the handlebar?  

No, I didn't go carbon. If I remeber right though, my new bar is lighter than the old. But my dropper seat post is heavier than the stock seat post.what I am wondering is how the weight of hydraulic brakes compare to mechanical? Did the hose, plus bigger calipers and rotors add weight? I also had to buy separate shimano shifters to add the brakes and didn't check the weight on those. Either way, I am actually trying to balance performance & reliability with price with my build, so weight is usually more of a tie-breaker for me.  

I am definitely going to check on new wheels and tires though. That's one place I could probably dramatically improve performance and save weight  

I got the EC34. I didn't replace it myself though. I was thinking about it, but when I compared the price of the equipment with how often I thought I would replace a headset it wasn't worth it. It was well worth it though. The stock one wasn't sealed and you could hear the dirt and grime in the bearing. The Cane Creek is as smooth as butter.  

I just wanted to give a quick update. I got my son's Trek 3500 down to 24 lbs 5 oz. I don't think you can possibly go any lighter on this bike. I am going to update with some pictures this week and a full list of what parts I bought and how much I paid.  

Coo. I'll be interested to see all the parts you used.  

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Parker Hall

Review: Trek Fetch+ 2

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One of the things that can be intimidating about buying a cargo ebike is how unfamiliar they feel. Whether a bike is designed with weird geometry and wheel sizes or odd features for heavy hauling, every ride can feel unfamiliar.

For traditional cyclists who want to haul a grocery store trip’s worth of groceries home but don’t want to mess with technology they’re unfamiliar with, the Trek Fetch+ 2 is a decent option. It’s more expensive than some of our favorite alternatives, but it has an easy-to-ride step-through design, well-made components, and great plastic buckets (and other accessories) for storage.

There are bikes with more advanced features for the money, but even after I spent a summer riding the Fetch+ 2, it barely needed a tune-up. For a modern cargo ebike with a classic cargo bike maintenance schedule, it might be worth spending a bit more cash.

On the Road

The Fetch+ 2 is the smaller of Trek’s two latest cargo ebikes, which includes the box-fronted Fetch+ 4 ($8,500) , which is more oriented toward toting around dogs and children in between groceries and beer.

The Fetch+ 2 instead is a more traditional step-through cargo bike that employs a myriad of attachments, most notably two plastic panniers that hang off an extended rack on the rear. You can get a padded seat cover for the rear to let friends hold on and ride, or mount a couple kids’ seats behind you, but I’d still probably use this bike more for errands than transporting little ones.

As an objet d’art , the bike is simple and unassuming, which is ideal for a bike this expensive. The battery is integrated into the frame, but a sizable bulge means nobody will fail to notice it's an ebike. You can get it in three colors. I liked the black of our review unit, but the bright blue would probably be my choice if I was buying one.

While much of the bike will be familiar to anyone who has ever seen or contemplated a cargo bike, Trek really gets the geometry and style of this bike correct as far as making it very usable for many tasks. Even the dual-sided kickstand pops up and down with remarkable ease (shockingly rare on other large ebikes I've used). I particularly enjoyed using the rear panniers for hauling flats of berries and other easily squished items that tend to rattle around in softer panniers.

The panniers fit a ton of stuff; I was able to get four full-size grocery bags spread between the two black plastic totes. I like that they had little plugs in the bottom that you could feasibly use a plastic bag to cover and then fill them with ice and drinks.

I spent a couple months using the Fetch+ 2 as my primary bike, and came away much more impressed than anticipated, given the specs and the price.

On paper, this is an expensive ebike to have pretty standard mid-drive cargo bike specs. The 85 Nm Bosch motor and 500-wH battery are good for 20-plus miles a day loaded down in any city, but they’re not better than models like the larger Xtracycle Stoker, which has the same torque and a 630-wH battery for $4,999. The Trek also doesn’t have a carbon belt drive and variable transmission, which we consider the best (and easiest to maintain) shifting mechanism for cargo bikes.

The more traditional chain-and-gears drivetrain and no suspension make this a less comfortable and more difficult-to-maintain bike than favorites like the Tern GSD ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ), which costs about the same. I have to say, I was expecting the difference in riding experience to be more severe. The fatter-than-usual 20 x 2.35-inch tires of the Trek absorbed potholes better than other suspensionless bikes. It also stopped just as well as its competitors, thanks to hydraulic disc brakes.

Mid-drive cargo bikes are much better than their rear-hub counterparts, especially when toting larger items or smaller humans, because they allow you to get more torque to the wheels, and provide a more traditional riding experience. I never found myself lacking for power, though I did crunch through the gears a bit when starting on a hill.

The Fetch+ 2 rides really well, with a solid frame and no creaks or sketchiness of any kind (as picked up from my local Trek dealer, another plus of ordering from the brand), and I really liked how bright the built-in lights were when riding home from soccer games and band practices at night. The fat wheels were easy to turn, giving this a turning radius similar to a non-extended ebike when I was making U-turns in the city. It also has a built-in phone mount with a wireless charger, which makes it really nice for using a map app to cruise to unfamiliar places.

It’s not a fun bike to ride in the traditional sense; it’s not the fastest or the most comfortable, but it is satisfyingly robust and confidence-inducing. In my months of riding, I never had a single issue with the bike. That’s unusual given the state of some of the roads I often took the Fetch+ 2 on the side of, and a testament to Trek's great build quality.

If I was a longtime Trek owner and interested in getting into cargo ebikes, I’d certainly give this line a look, with the understanding that I might find something I like better from Tern, Xtracycle, or another brand for the same price—or something from Rad Power Bikes or another more affordable direct-to-consumer manufacturer for less. It’s a well-made bike that does what it claims to do, but it’s on the spendy side.

It is a bit hard to come by, at least in bike shops around my hometown of Portland, Oregon. If you’re interested in this one for your treks around town, I’d make sure to call ahead for a test ride. If you want a familiar-feeling bike with all the frills of electrification, it’s worth a spin.

• Crosscountry
• Rider Notes

2015 Trek 3500

A 26″ aluminum frame crosscountry bike with mid-range components and rim brakes. Compare the full range

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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.

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Last updated June 29 Not listed for 2,487 days