trek fuel ex 9.8 gx weight

• Buyers Guide

• Technical Details

• All Mountain

Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Review

• 25 years warranty
• light: 13,1 kg

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Fuel EX 9.8 GX ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (All Mountain up to 8000 €) ⬤ .

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 6599 €.

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

• Frame Fuel EX Carbon
• Frame Material Carbon
• Fork Fox Performance 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Kabolt axle, 140mm travel
• Spring Unit air
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Damper Size: XS, S, Fox Performance Float EVOL, RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft 3-position damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 52.5mm; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, Fox Performance Float EVOL, RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft 3-position damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab,
• Gearrange 520%
• Drivetrain 1x12
• Gear Lever SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed
• Rear Derailleur SRAM GX Eagle
• Crank Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, SRAM GX Eagle, DUB, 30T alloy ring, Boost (52mm chainline), 170mm length; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, SRAM GX Eagle, DUB, 30T alloy ring, Boost (52mm chainline), 175mm length
• Cassette SRAM Eagle XG-1275, 10-52, 12 speed
• Chain SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed
• Brake Set SRAM G2 RS 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Brake Rotors 180/180
• Wheel Set Bontrager Line Elite 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle
• Tires Front Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120tpi, 29.x2.40''
• Tires Rear Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120tpi, 29.x2.40
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138mm width
• Seat Post Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line Elite, 100mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 31.6mm, 340mm length; Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 340mm length; Size: M, ML, Bontrager Line Elite, 150mm travel, MaxFlow, in
• Stem Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line Pro, 35mm, Knock Block, Blendr compatible, 0 degree, 35mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, Bontrager Line Pro, 35mm, Knock Block, Blendr compatible, 0 degree, 45mm length
• Handle Bar Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 35mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width; Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
• Handle Bar Width 780
• Head Set Knock Block Integrated, 58-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

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• Rider Notes

2021 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX

A 27.5″ / 29″ carbon frame full suspension trail bike with high-end components.

For This Bike

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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.

Fuel EX 9.8 GX

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Add custom gearing

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

Dec 2022 · Mike Levy

The downtube storage compartment is on the new bike, and while it seems like Trek has put all the things onto the latest Fuel EX, there's one that they didn't: Knock Block.

Wide range of effective geometry adjustments

Just as much fun on smooth trails as it is on scary trails

Great climber, efficient pedaling

One-piece handlebar might be too stiff for some riders

Paint chips easily

Read Review

New geometry, more travel, and even better suspension improves Trek's mid-weight trail bike.

Sep 2022 · Tom Marvin

Does the benchmark trail bike retain its reputation as a solid choice?

Excellent suspension

Solid feel to the frame

Great geometry

Doesn’t feel as sprightly on climbs as some

Tyres give up corner traction too easily in loose or muddy conditions

May 2022 · Guy Kesteven

Trek’s alloy Fuel EX trail mountain bike lacks the latest features but is the overall package still a winner?

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

Jun 2021 · Peter Walker

The Trek Fuel EX has proven itself as an excellent all-rounder in the past. This year, the American brand enters the race with the € 5,999 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX, which combines a high-end frame with a mid-level spec but still features Trek's Thru Shaft shock technology. So does it always have to be top-spec? How big is the difference in performance and how does the Fuel EX 9.8 GX fare against its more expensive peers?

Very comfortable uphill

Intuitive handling

High-quality frame with integrated storage compartment

Tires are very puncture prone and generate little traction

Brakes don't do the bike’s potential justice

Oct 2020 · Benjamin Topf

The Trek Fuel EX 9.9 is an absolute classic in the trail bike segment. Could it also be the perfect bike for the next bikepacking adventure with its modern geometry and spare parts compartment in the down tube? We put the Fuel EX to the test.

Maximum fun on the descents

Intuitive and good-natured handling

Storage compartment in the down tube for tools or snacks

Too sluggish on easy terrain

Too much bike for long straights

Jun 2020 · Spencer Johnson

As warmer temperatures hit the Pacific Northwest and the dirt starts to dry, I’m always eager to get out on some long rides with some big climbs. Naturally, when this Trek Fuel EX 9.9 showed up at the Freehub office, I knew it was time to put the nimble beast through its paces. I challenged myself to a 60-mile sufferfest on some of Bellingham, Washington’s toughest climbs and descents. It definitely didn’t let me down. Climbing on this bike was a joy. Trek equipped the 9.9 model with its proprietary RE:aktiv shock with a three-position damper, which I left wide open for the entire ride. The rear suspension had an overwhelmingly supportive feel while pedaling out of the saddle, yet as soon as I hit a bump it dived deeper into the travel, keeping the rear wheel firmly planted and providing excellent traction. The geometry is modern and balanced, with a long reach and a sensible 76-degree seat angle. On the descents, the bike inspired confidence, thanks to its long wheelbase and bottomless-feeling suspension. My confidence was further enhanced by the reliable stopping power of the Shimano XT brakes. As a 200-pound rider, I couldn’t have appreciated the ultra-powerful XT brakes and the 203-millimeter front rotor more—especially while bombing down some of Bellingham’s scariest double-black trails.

Apr 2020 · McCoy

Can it get any better than this?

Last updated August 15 Not listed for 606 days

Trek Fuel EX 2023 Review | A bigger, musclier & hugely adaptable trail bike

The not-so-minor details.

2023 Trek Fuel EX

https://www.trekbikes.com

$4,999 AUD - $8,999 AUD

- Sturdy, flex-free chassis - Superb geometry with adjustable head angle - Efficient & comfortable climbing performance - Coil shock, big fork & mullet compatibility - Mechanic-friendly frame furnishings - Internal storage

- Frame is on the heavy side - Rear shock tune lacks small-bump suppleness - Rattly rear thru-axle lever

Wil reviews the Trek Fuel EX 2023

Having undergone a ground-up redesign for 2023, the Trek Fuel EX has entered its burliest and biggest travel form yet. This latest model represents the 6th generation of Trek’s popular mid-travel trail bike, with the original having debuted all the way back in 2005. Trail riding has evolved a lot since then, and the new Fuel EX aims to keep up with that evolution by incorporating almost every mod-con you can think of.

Of course it’s big news whenever Trek releases a new Fuel EX, and given how important this bike is for the US brand, we were curious to see how the raft of updates would play out on the trail. We had a bit of an idea, having thoroughly enjoyed riding the electrified Trek Fuel EXe over the past few months. Would the muscle-powered version deliver the same good vibes? And how would it compare to the previous models that have given us so many fond riding memories over the years? We’ve been putting the Trek Fuel EX 2023 to the test to find out!

Watch our video review of the Trek Fuel EX 2023:

Along with the downtube storage, generous frame armour and size-specific chainstays, the Fuel EX appears to pack in almost everything you could possibly want in a modern trail bike.

An overview of the Trek Fuel EX 2023

For 2023, the Trek Fuel EX is built around an entirely new frame that’s produced in carbon and alloy variants. Suspension travel has increased by 10mm at both ends, with the new Fuel EX now sporting a 150mm fork and 140mm of rear travel via the ABP four-bar suspension design.

It’s worth noting that the frame will handle a 160mm travel fork, and thanks to the two-position Mino Link, it can also be run as a mullet. Borrowed from the Session downhill bike, there’s a two-position flip chip at the lower shock mount that offers linear and progressive settings. The latter option is what makes the new Fuel EX coil shock compatible.

On top of that, Trek will be offering aftermarket headset cups to steepen or slacken the head angle by a degree. Along with the downtube storage, generous frame armour and size-specific chainstays, the Fuel EX appears to pack in almost everything you could possibly want in a modern trail bike. It’s certainly an appealing package on paper, and one that’s ready to take on contemporaries like the Specialized Stumpjumper , Merida One-Forty , Canyon Spectral and Giant Trance X .

Trek Fuel EX price & specs

There are a number of different models available in the Trek Fuel EX 2023 lineup, though availability will vary depending on where you are in the world.

In Australia, prices currently range from $4,999 AUD for the Fuel EX 7, and go up to $8,999 AUD for the Fuel EX 9.8 XT model. The cheapest option is actually the Fuel EX 5, though that model carries over the previous generation frame. For a closer look at the specs, prices and all the new details, check out our Trek Fuel EX 2023 overview article for more.

Here we’ll be diving into our experience of testing the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS model, which will be available in Australia in limited quantities through the custom Project One bike builder. It’s a media bike that was provided to us by Trek, and of course it comes dripping with lots of gold, carbon and wireless bits. However, as usual with our reviews, we won’t be going into detail about the Gucci-level spec. Instead, we’ll be concentrating on the important aspects that are shared throughout the Fuel EX lineup; the frame design, suspension performance and its on-trail handling.

2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS

• Frame |  OCLV Mountain Carbon Fibre, ABP Suspension Design, 140mm Travel
• Fork |  Fox 36, Factory Series, GRIP2 Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock |  Fox Float X, Factory Series, 185x55mm
• Wheels |  Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres |  Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain |  SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS1×12 w/30T Crankset & 10-52T Cassette
• Brakes |  SRAM Code RSC 4-Piston
• Bar |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 27.5mm Rise, 820mm Width
• Stem |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 45mm Length
• Seatpost |  RockShox Reverb AXS, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M-M/L), 170mm (L), 200mm (XL)
• Saddle |  Bontrager Arvada, Austentite Rails
• Confirmed Weight | 14.4kg
• RRP |  $TBC

The chassis feels near-bombproof, and combined with the supportive suspension, powerful brakes and high volume rubber, you’re served up plenty of confidence for pushing the front wheel into steep chutes and over technical A-lines.

Trek Fuel EX size & geometry

From X-Small through to XX-Large, the Trek Fuel EX is produced in no fewer than seven different sizes. Seven! Given that many brands only offer four or sometimes even just three frame sizes, that’s impressive.

The two smallest sizes feature 27.5in wheels, while the Medium and above come standard with 29in wheels. The Small is the only option that is available in either wheelsize.

At 175cm tall I’ve been riding a Medium, which features a 450mm reach. Thanks to the use of short seat tubes, a rider of my height could easily upsize to the M/L size to get a longer 470mm reach. Personally, I’ve found the fit of the Medium to be spot-on.

As for geometry, the Fuel EX features a 64.5° head angle and approximately a 77.5° effective seat tube angle in its stock configuration. The rear centre length varies between sizes, going up to 450mm on the largest frame. On the Medium I’ve been riding, the rear centre is a compact 435mm.

Coming off the Fuel EXe, I found it easy to settle into the Fuel EX. The only modification I needed to perform was to chop the comically wide handlebars from 820mm down to a more reasonable 780mm.

Suspension & tyre setup

Getting the Fuel EX set up is made easy thanks to Trek’s detailed online suspension calculator . Input the bike model and your riding weight, and out spits suggested air pressure and rebound settings for both the fork and shock. It even suggests tyre pressures, giving you a good place to start before hitting the trail. When brands like Canyon struggle to provide any recommendations at all, Trek should be commended for helping riders to get the most out of their bike.

For my 68kg riding weight, Trek suggests setting up the Fox 36 fork slightly softer and slower than usual. Recommended rear shock sag is 29%, and the calculator’s suggestion of 158psi got me to exactly that figure. Initially I set the rebound at 6/15 clicks as recommended, but while everything felt quite balanced front to back, the suspension was a little sluggish and duller than I wanted. Speeding up the rebound by a couple of clicks in both the fork and shock helped to make the whole bike feel a bit more lively, while improving small-bump reactivity.

Although the Bontrager SE5 tyres feature reinforced Core Strength casings, I still fitted a CushCore Pro insert to provide some additional pinch-flat protection and insurance for the carbon rims. Tyre pressures were set as per Trek’s recommendations with 20psi in the front and 22psi in the rear.

Trek Fuel EX weight

Confirmed weight for our Trek Fuel EX test bike is 14.4kg. That’s with the tyres set up tubeless, but without the CushCore insert or pedals.

It’s on the heavier side for a high-end carbon trail bike, though the 2.5in tyres, stocky carbon wheels and AXS components aren’t exactly the lightest going. Of course weights do vary throughout the Fuel EX lineup depending on the spec, and you can see the weights for all the different models in our range overview .

A contributing factor to the overall weight is the new frame, which has gained almost 700g over its predecessor. Trek claims the carbon frame weighs 3.4kg with the rear shock, making it a bit of a porker alongside some of the competition;

• Scott Genius HMX Carbon: 2,249g
• Specialized Stumpjumper Carbon: 2,280g
• Giant Trance X Advanced Pro 29: 2,498g
• Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Carbon: 2,750g
• Canyon Spectral CF: 3,047g
• Trek Fuel EX Carbon: 3,400g

The new alloy Fuel EX frame is heavier again, coming in at a hefty 4.6kg with shock.

Of course weight isn’t everything, and it’s unsurprising that the new frame has gotten heavier given how much longer and slacker it is. Still, for those who are especially concerned by grams, there are certainly lighter options on the market.

What do we dig about the Trek Fuel EX 2023?

With its added heft and updated geometry, the Trek Fuel EX 2023 is no doubt the burliest iteration yet. The chassis feels near-bombproof, and combined with the supportive suspension, powerful brakes and high volume rubber, you’re served up plenty of confidence for pushing the front wheel into steep chutes and over technical A-lines.

Indeed it’s massively capable for a 140mm travel bike, with the slack 64.5° head angle and roomy wheelbase giving it a purposeful stance on the trail. The geometry is superb, with welcome updates that have brought the Fuel EX right up to speed.

The steeper seat angle is particularly noticeable over the old bike, providing a much improved seated position on steep climbs. Pedalling efficiency has also levelled up. Trek has lifted the main pivot above the chainring to increase anti-squat, which helps to reduce pedal-induced bobbing. The Float X shock has a two-position climb switch, but I never once needed to use it while riding off-road since the rear end is so well behaved.

It rips through the turns

Once up to speed on flower singletrack, the taut chassis means the Trek Fuel EX is highly responsive when rounding corners and pushing into berms.

With its boxy downtube, split top tube and the supporting strut for the lower shock mount, the front triangle is heavily braced to resist torsional flex. Along with the wide main pivot and boxy one-piece chainstays, the Fuel EX possesses a strong spine from its shapely head tube to the rear thru-axle. The muscly frame effectively translates handling inputs while resisting lateral deflection through the turns.

Likewise, the short rear end and generous 38mm BB drop are fantastic when threading your way through twisty sections of trail, keeping you connected to the terrain and contributing to the playful ride quality. The low-hanging BB did mean I caught the pedals occasionally, so those who frequent off-piste terrain and technical climbs will want to consider flipping the Mino Link into the High position to indulge in an extra 7mm of pedal clearance.

Otherwise the riding position and weight distribution are totally sorted. The handling is approachable, and the Fuel EX doesn’t demand a whole lot from you as the rider. Compared to the old bike it does need a more concerted lean when entering tighter corners, though this is a part of the natural evolution of modern trail bike geometry. Even if you’re coming off a 5-year old bike, you’ll only need a few rides to get accustomed to the Fuel EX’s steering behaviour.

Trail-tweakable

In addition to the Mino Link, we’ve also been experimenting with the lower shock flip chip on the Trek Fuel EX. Requiring just a single 6mm hex key, it’s a quick adjustment to make trailside, and the change in suspension behaviour is noticeable.

I ended up preferring the ‘Less’ setting, which provides a more linear leverage rate. With the shock set at the recommended sag, this position provides great pedalling support, along with more comfort and activity deeper into the stroke. There’s still a good deal of progression though. Combined with the large bottom-out bumper in the Float X shock, hitting full travel proved to be a well-controlled affair.

One of our fellow testers, who generally spends more time in the air than on the ground, preferred riding in the ‘More’ setting. This increases progression, providing a stronger ramp-up in the latter half of the travel. He also reduced the shock pressure by 5psi to further enhance small-bump compliance, while still being able to enjoy the additional big-hit support. Pedal efficiency isn’t as stable in this setting, but it does mean the Fuel EX takes to jumps like a duck to water, popping off lips enthusiastically and absorbing hard landings with a solid and flex-free touchdown.

One thing to note on the More/Less flip chip is that while you are altering the progression of the air spring, you’re also affecting the damper too. As well as adjusting air pressure, we found we needed to tweak the rebound and low-speed compression settings between the two positions. It is indeed a useful tuning tool, but it doesn’t dispel the need for air volume spacers entirely.

What does it struggle with?

With the Trek Fuel EX adopting a beefier frame, the added weight is noticeable compared to lighter bikes in this category. That’s compounded by the heavy-duty brakes, stocky wheels and chunky tyres, which mean there’s more inertia to overcome during micro-accelerations on an undulating climb.

For those who are looking for a sharper and sprightlier trail bike to whip through the trees along smoother singletrack, the latest Trek Top Fuel will be a better fit. In comparison, the new Fuel EX is a burlier beast that thrives on steeper and more technical terrain.

Curiously, it does feel stiffer than the electrified version, the Fuel EXe . Despite both our test bikes featuring carbon frames with a near-identical build kit, I’ve found the Fuel EX to transmit more trail feedback.

Some of this may be due to structural differences, and perhaps the more favourable sprung-to-unsprung mass ratio on the electric version thanks to the added weight of the motor and and battery. Either way, the Fuel EX doesn’t exactly exude off-camber compliance. As a lighter rider on very rocky terrain, I’ve found myself getting knocked around a little more than I would like.

This sensation reminded me of the Canyon Spectral 125 , which proved to be overly stiff and quite uncomfortable at slower riding speeds. The Fuel EX is more compliant overall than the Spectral 125, but it’s still pretty stiff.

It’s not as supple as Fuel EX models gone by

Contributing to this sensation, the suspension isn’t as plush as previous Fuel EX models, particularly those that featured the Thru Shaft shock. Those bikes did require the rider to make use of the compression lever to provide pedalling support, but it meant that in the open mode the rear end absorbed the terrain like melted butter.

You may have noticed that Trek has been making a conscious move away from proprietary suspension components lately, and that’s coincided with building bikes that offer more neutral pedalling performance. The increased anti-squat is one part of the equation on the new Fuel EX, and the other part is the custom-tuned Float X, which Trek has configured with a digressive compression tune on the main piston. This creates a decent low-speed threshold, which provides a level of support that sits between the Open and Medium settings on the previous RE:aktiv damper.

The result is that you can ride with the shock fully open, and the Fuel EX still offers great stability under pedalling inputs, with no real need to activate the climb switch. If you detest remote lockouts and having to flip shock levers all the time, this will certainly be appealing.

The downside is that the suspension isn’t as supple over smaller rubble and at slower speeds. Along with the stiff chassis and carbon wheels, more of those vibrations are transmitted to the rider. As such, careful consideration with tyre pressure is needed to maximise grip and comfort.

Because there is more support however, the Fuel EX gives your feet a stronger platform to push off of, with greater feedback during high-load scenarios. Indeed the harder and faster you push, the better the Fuel EX responds. In that sense, it’s less of a comfy cruiser like its predecessors, and more of a mid-travel bruiser that loves to ride hard and fast.

Component highs & lows

As a complete bike, the Trek Fuel EX is a solid package that puts the emphasis on capability over light weight.

The Bontrager SE5 tyres are a good example, coming in at 1,100g each on our workshop scales. They roll reasonably well given their weight and size, and we’ve found them to provide consistent grip on rocky, hard-packed soil, which will suit most Aussie trail riders. The tread is a little shallow though, and the compound isn’t the softest, which sees them struggling to latch on when the conditions are wet and loose. We’d prefer something a little stickier and toothier up front, like a Maxxis Minion DHR II with 3C MaxxGrip rubber.

While the carbon Bontrager Line Pro rims are quite stiff, they have proven to be plenty tough. We’ve tested five of these wheelsets across various bikes over the past few years and we’ve not encountered a single issue. The y also come with a two-year crash replacement guarantee, which is great insurance given the hell that you can put this bike through. Furthermore, the frame itself comes with a lifetime warranty for the original owner.

There’s still plenty of real-world protection though, including a generous two-piece armour plate that bolts to the underside of the downtube. There’s also a metal chain-suck guard behind the chainring, and a full-coverage chainstay protector. Along with the fully guided internal cable routing, the Fuel EX is an impressively quiet and rattle-free bike on the trail. Well, except for the rear thru-axle lever, which I removed after the first ride.

Otherwise the finishing details are all sound. The adoption of a bigger 34.9mm seat tube diameter is welcome, as it accommodates a stiffer and stronger dropper post, particularly for the larger sizes. Mechanics will be happy to see a threaded BB shell, and we’re fans of the downtube storage. The trap door has none of the play that we encountered on the last Fuel EX we tested, with a tight fit and a nice lever action.

It’s certainly a high quality chassis, and many riders are likely to appreciate the in-built versatility. We’re looking forward to trying out the adjustable head angle once the aftermarket cups become available, and we’d also be keen to try out the Fuel EX with a coil shock. Setting it up as a mullet will be more straightforward, especially as you only need to buy an air spring to extend the Fox 36 up to 160mm of travel.

Trek Fuel EX vs Specialized Stumpjumper

Alongside the Trek Fuel EX, the Specialized Stumpjumper is one of the most popular and well-known trail bikes in this category. In terms of travel and the overall build, the Fuel EX sits right in between the regular Stumpjumper and the Stumpjumper EVO. However, it’s the regular Stumpy that I’ve been spending the most time on lately, both in its stock configuration and with a burlier mullet setup .

Compared to the Fuel EX, the Stumpjumper has a touch less travel with a 140mm fork and 130mm at the rear. It also uses a simpler suspension layout, with the carbon models employing a flex-stay design. Combined with its slimmer tube profiles, the carbon Stumpjumper frame is very light. Specialized claims it weighs just 2.28kg including the shock, which is over a kilo lighter than a carbon Fuel EX.

This theme extends to the Stumpjumper’s build kit, with Specialized electing for the skinnier Fox 34 over the 36. Along with an in-line shock, lighter brakes, wheels and tyres, there’s a considerable difference in the overall bike weight. For example, the Stumpjumper Pro we tested weighed 12.84kg.

While the geometry is pretty similar between the two bikes, the Specialized Stumpjumper rides much lighter on the trail compared to the Trek Fuel EX. It offers more comfort, with its lithe chassis and smooth suspension performance providing better compliance over rough terrain. It’s quite sporty and sprightly, though its active suspension design does need taming on the climbs by making use of the rear shock’s compression lever.

In comparison, the Fuel EX is more naturally efficient. It’s also more planted at speed, with its sturdy chassis and supportive suspension providing better big-hit capability. It feels more like a short travel enduro bike, which will suit heavier and harder riders.

Both bikes will handle a longer fork and can be set up as a mullet, though Specialized makes a specific link for the Stumpjumper to maintain the stock geometry. There is greater versatility in the Fuel EX chassis, with the option to adjust the head angle and fit a coil shock.

As for value, the Fuel EX offers a more appealing spec package. A Stumpjumper Expert sells for $9,800 AUD and comes with a Fox 34 GRIP2 fork, SRAM G2 brakes, an X01 drivetrain, alloy wheels and handlebars. In comparison, an equivalent Fuel EX 9.8 XT sells for $800 AUD less. It gets a simpler GRIP damper for its Fox 36 fork, though it does feature a piggyback shock, a Shimano XT groupset, a carbon one-piece RSL cockpit and carbon wheels with that 2-year crash replacement guarantee.

Flow’s Verdict

For many trail riders, the Trek Fuel EX 2023 is likely to tick just about every box on your new bike wish list. It’s as up to date as it gets, featuring loads of adjustability, internal storage and a nuanced approach to its size-specific geometry. Along with the increased travel and muscly frame, it offers greater stability and big-hit control over its predecessor, while still being a fun and involving bike to ride on modern flow trails.

It is a bit of a chonker though, so those who are looking for a lightweight and speedy trail bike may be better served by the latest Top Fuel .

The stiff chassis and supportive suspension also mean the Fuel EX tends to transmit more feedback, making it less comfortable to ride over rocky terrain. We’d be curious to try out a lighter shock tune to see how much of a difference that would make to the overall ride quality, but in its stock form the Fuel EX isn’t as plush as competitors like the Giant Trance X and Specialized Stumpjumper .

It is impressively efficient though, and the stable suspension gives you a load of support when you’re really giving it the beans on the descents. In this sense, the Fuel EX is closer in feel and performance to an enduro bike. You’ll still want to look towards the Slash if you’re serious about racing, but outside of the tape the Fuel EX will handle just about everything a modern trail centre or bikepark could throw at it. And for those who really want to up the limits, the adaptable chassis can easily be configured for some pretty aggressive riding.

Indeed for those who are chasing maximum capability without going to a big, spongy enduro bike, the Fuel EX is a mighty appealing option.

You’ll still want to look towards the Slash if you’re serious about racing, but outside of the tape the Fuel EX will handle just about everything a modern trail centre or bikepark could throw at it.

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Trek Fuel EX 9.8

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Weight / M - 13.17 kg / 29.03 lbs (with TLR sealant no tubes)

At a glance

Fuel EX 9.8 is the carbon trail bike that can fly through singletrack, throw down with the rowdy trail crew, and crush miles during marathon races. A lightweight full OCLV Mountain Carbon frame, 1×12 SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, carbon wheels, and FOX Performance Float suspension with Trek’s exclusive RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft shock make it the perfect choice for all-mountain shredders who want a single bike that does it all.

Where To Buy

"A world-class trail bike"

"Fuel EX is a beautifully balanced and capable trail bike. The rear suspension is beautiful; as close to ideal as any bike I've ridden. It's sensitive where you want it to be, firm and crisp where it should be. It feels deep and controls big hits very well, and there's a nice platform for pedaling, and to pump and pop off when you're playing."

"Good at pleasing everybody"

"Fuel EX has a few tricks that help it keep a level head when outside of its comfort zone, and to be a cloud on rails when it's in the zone. Everything about the Fuel EX, which was already good at pleasing everybody, is now even better at it."

"An absolute trail rocket"

"Thanks to its burlier components, increased travel, and more aggressive geometry, it has become more of a shredder than ever! More performance, fun, and trail prowess."

Specifications

• Frame OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame & stays, internal storage, tapered head tube, Knock Block, Control Freak internal routing, Carbon Armor, ISCG 05, magnesium rocker link, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, 130mm travel
• Fork Fox Performance 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Kabolt axle, 140mm travel
• Shock Size: XS , S Fox Performance Float EVOL, RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft 3-position damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210x52.5mm Size: S , M , ML , L , XL Fox Performance Float EVOL, RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft 3-position damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210x55mm
• Wheels Front: Bontrager Line Carbon 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle Rear: Bontrager Line Carbon 30, Tubeless Ready, 54T Rapid Drive, 6-bolt, SRAM XD driver, Boost148, 12mm thru axle
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Tires Size: XS , S Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 27.5x2.60'' Size: S , M , ML , L , XL Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.60''
• Chain SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed
• Crank Size: XS , S Truvativ Descendant 7k Eagle, DUB, 32T alloy ring, Boost, 170mm length Size: M , ML , L , XL Truvativ Descendant 7k Eagle, DUB, 32T alloy ring, Boost, 175mm length
• Bottom Bracket SRAM DUB, 92mm, PressFit
• Rear Derailleur SRAM GX Eagle
• Shifters SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed
• Brakeset Shimano SLX M7120 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138mm width
• Seatpost Size: XS , S Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 340mm length Size: M , ML Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 440mm length
• Stem Size: XS , S Size: M , ML , L , XL
• Headset Knock Block Integrated, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

Q: How much is a 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8?

A 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 is typically priced around $6,000 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8?

The 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 weigh?

A 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 weights M - 13.17 kg / 29.03 lbs (with TLR sealant no tubes).

Q: What size wheels does the 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 have?

The 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 should I get?

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Is Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Worth Buying? [Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Review]

Table of Contents

Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Gen 5

• Frame: Carbon
• Suspension: 140mm (front), 130mm (rear)
• Tires: 27.5/29 inches

What we like about it: Sturdy frame supports professional riding tests.

What we don’t like about it: High-spec components make maintenance more careful.

Rating: (4.8/5)

The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is the perfect full-suspension trail bike. When you see the actual car you know I’m definitely not exaggerating.

Whether it’s a full carbon brazed body, 140mm (front) 130mm (rear) suspension travel with both shock absorption and climbing performance, or the superior performance of the SRAM G2 RS 4-piston hydraulic disc 9.8 Amaze you. This is a real Trek Fuel.

When you ride this trail bike, the innovative front and rear triangular geometry frame and tall Bontrager Line Elite 30 tubeless tires let you take any rough terrain you want to risk or dangerous terrain you don’t dare to challenge.

Don’t be afraid of any drag, I’m sure the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Gen 5will blow your mind. Below we break down the Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s descending and climbing capabilities, key features, components, and specs in detail along with the rest of the range.

If you want to know more about Trek fuel versions, check out our review.

Learn more: Trek Fuel EX 9 Review

Trek Fuel EX 5 Review

It would be unconvincing if I just told you how perfect the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s superior performance is, so in this review, the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX joined us on a professional trail. From the slick ascents of rough, year-round training to the dangerous downhills of sharp rubble and fallen branches, the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Gen 5 is officially tested.

In the beginning, based on the emphasis on the woodland, I adjusted the shape of the car to a high-geometry climbing shape, and I was completely ready for a big fight.

During the rapid acceleration, I tightened my muscles and started to go all out, and the process was not as easy as I thought. The 1×12 drivetrain gave me the most bang for my buck, while the grippy, grippy tires kept me from skidding during fast rides.

The tires are full of aramid beads. Although it is an unremarkable design, it is also a great help in increasing friction. The all-carbon brazed body includes rims and front fork components to maximize shock absorption.

The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX weighs in at 13.1kg, which is about as heavy as a sleeping bulldog in my living room. I can lift it easily.

This is a section of trail terrain that is not so straight, and collisions with the body during sharp turns are a concern for most drivers. Although the performance of carbon brazing is balanced, it also means that it is more brittle and prone to damage.

I have to admit that the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX has achieved the ultimate in design details. There are also models without bumpers in the same price range. In my opinion, this is essential for riding.

When I reached the highest altitude, our conquest of climbing had come to an end, and the next step was the more exciting rapid descent and dive test. When I looked at the broken and sharp rubble on the forest road, my heart was nervous.

I’ve been involved in riding for years, but in the face of this uncertain and dangerous terrain, I’m still full of energy and prepared for the worst. In the control of the body during big bumps, whether the car itself can withstand the constant ups and downs of stimulation…

These are all things I have to consider. I double-checked the springs, dampers, brakes, and when I was ready, I took a deep breath and started sprinting.

During the rapid descent, it was indeed very thrilling. The countless gravel bumped my body and shook my arm muscles, but it was much lighter than I thought.

I think this is because the carbon fiber material of the body absorbs vibration and the cooperation of the front and rear triangles, through the compression and extension swing of the shock absorber, to reduce the vibration effect. Even in bumpy and rough road conditions, the tires remain firmly on the ground to maintain optimum pedaling efficiency and ground contact performance.

I still have good control over the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX.

Main Feature

When you get your hands on this car, you’ll be amazed at the unique quality of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX itself. Glossy carbon braided body, I’m really obsessed with this material.

But it has to be said that for beginners, this material may have higher professional requirements for you. It is so light and so strong, the two seem to be contradictory, but they can be well integrated.

The cooperation of the front and rear triangles can maximize its absorption and shock absorption effect. There are also many choices in color design (Lithium Grey / Factory Orange; Matte Carbon Smoke; Satin Black Olive; Raw Carbon / Rage Red).

The variety of colors is really rare for Trek. Anyone who knows me will know that I have always complained about the single-color Trek.

It is still a noble internal wiring design, and I appreciate the internal wiring very much. It can best protect the performance of the important lines of the body, and in very harsh environments, it is still not damaged by mud.

You must know that we often encounter rainy days, and we have no choice but to sprint the entire track in the face of roads full of mud. Internal wiring does save a lot of trouble for our follow-up maintenance. I’d rather drink a full case of beer with the drivers at the end of a race than spend a lot of time tending my car.

In terms of details, I appreciate Trek Fuel EX, whether it is the storage function of the body and the design of the increased shock block. It is very necessary to carry the necessary food to supplement physical strength when riding at high speed.

The classic 75.0-degree seat tube angle makes you more comfortable in your sitting position. Because of years of riding, I have tried many models. If you feel uncomfortable in the position, it will cause a lot of damage to the muscles, and you will feel uncomfortable after a riding competition.

With a 66.0-degree head tube angle, there is nothing to fault in terms of riding experience. Of course, if your upper body is too long, then you have to check the size chart and choose carefully to avoid exchange. (for reference I’m 5’8″, choose size M)

The Fox Performance 36 front and rear travel combination (140mm (front) and 130mm (rear)) made it easy for me to climb and descend, which greatly reduced the impact force on the body. You can master more in body control, and adjust your state at any time according to the terrain.

In terms of braking power, as I mentioned earlier, the SRAM GX Eagle’s 1×12 dynamic braking system can provide me with great assistance during the ride. My riding experience with the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX can give a standard A rating.

Components and Specifications

Sram gx eagle 1×12 drivetrain.

As I have always emphasized, I am obsessed with trail riding, not only because of the unknown risks, but also because of the thrill of approaching the limit in speed challenges.

Whether it’s breaking resistance uphill, it can also give you a lot of confidence on rougher roads, thanks to the SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain.

I still remember my race in Southern California, and even though the riders I was with were very capable, the SRAM GX Eagle 1×12’s range of 22-speed options gave me a lot of confidence.

Float EVOL Air Spring

For the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX, weight has always been its strength. In the design of reducing the weight of the body, the load EVOL air spring has achieved a high level in its ability to absorb vibration and reduce the body being squeezed.

I think the designers at Trek must have put a lot of thought into it. At this point, I feel compelled to point it out to my readers.

SRAM G2 RS 4 Brake Hydraulic Disc

The SRAM G2 RS 4 brake hydraulic disc itself is a statement of technology, a new trend over traditional mechanical discs. If you know bicycle accessories, you should know that we have gone through a big leap from mechanical discs to hydraulic discs.

This kind of leap can be explained from two aspects. First, the hydraulic disc is more sensitive to emergencies, and second, the load also greatly reduces the burden on the body, so that you can make a big leap in high-speed driving. best level.

But there is one regret that I still need to share for the sake of honesty. The maintenance cost of the hydraulic disc is higher than that of the mechanical disc, and the maintenance is more careful than the mechanical disc, so it is also expensive.

Other Versions of Trek Fuel EX

Trek fuel ex 9.9 x01 axs.

Compared to the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS, we were surprised to find the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s price/performance ratio was outstanding. Although the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS and 9.8 GX share the same full carbon fiber material, they also have the same liquid discs on the brakes and even the fork selection.

But the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is about $4,000 more expensive. Although it is lighter in body weight (Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX weighs 12,8kg), that doesn’t quite convince me.

In terms of suspension travel, the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS has not been upgraded, and it is still the front (140mm) and rear (130mm) travel design, which means it is faster and more stable when climbing and descending.

So in general, on the more important performance components, the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS has not achieved a complete leap.

Trek Fuel EX 8

When compared with the Trek Fuel EX 8, it was found that the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX achieved a relatively large improvement, although the price also increased accordingly. However, by comparing the data, we found that the following important components have been upgraded.

First up is the fork, from the Trek Fuel EX 8’s Fox Rhythm Float 34 to the Fox Performance Float 36, which means a breakthrough in both shock and weight. Second, the Fuel EX 9.8 GX is lighter, which makes it easier on some uphills and jumps.

Compared to the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s higher version of the SRAM G2 RS hydraulic disc, the Trek Fuel EX 8 features a Shimano 4 hydraulic disc, which is far less sensitive and lighter than the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX. So if you’re looking for a more durable and performant full-suspension bike, I’d go for the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX.

In terms of riding and performance, each upgrade means a completely different riding experience and stable handling performance, and it can also save a lot of trouble in subsequent upgrades.

Learn More: Rider’s Favorite – Trek Fuel EX 8 Full-Shock Mountain Bike Review

What do we like about it?

• Full carbon fiber body material to meet the needs of lighter and stronger riding.
• The innovative geometric frame can maximize the force of absorbing shock.
• 1×12 drivetrain accelerates more efficiently and offers a wide range of speed options.
• Brake hydraulic disc for more braking agility, while minimizing vehicle weight.
• The built-in wiring is simple and efficient, saving time and cost of maintenance.
• More color choices to meet the needs of different groups of people.
• Different suspension travel front and rear is very stable and friendly for climbing and descending terrain.
• Tubeless tires can help riders ride more stable and confidently.
• The air spring can accommodate the impulse from the body extrusion to the greatest extent.

What do we not like about it?

• Not very wallet-friendly.
• Tall components that require careful maintenance to avoid major damage.
• What is the body weight of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX?

The M model of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is 13.1 kg.

• What is the front and rear suspension travel of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX?

The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX has 140mm of front and 130mm of rear suspension travel, respectively.

• What is the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX drivetrain?

The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX drivetrain is a SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain.

Accessories

Comparison Table

Ibis ripley gx vs trek fuel ex 9.8 gx.

In terms of body weight, the Ibis Ripley GX reaches 2.3 kg, which is a big drag for the body to climb. Secondly, we all know that we will encounter some big jumps because of the high speed when riding on the trail, so it is necessary to ride a lighter bike.

In terms of fork performance, the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Fox Performance Float 36 fork is more professional, and is superior to the Ibis Ripley GX’s Fox Factory Float 34 in terms of shock absorption and stiffness.

So, if you’re looking for superior performance and don’t want the necessary expense of some fork upgrades, I think the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is a better choice.

BMC Fourstroke 01 vs Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX

When it comes to choosing a professional trail, I believe the BMC Fourstroke 01 is definitely in your choice. First of all, in a strict sense, the frame weight of the BMC Fourstroke 01, LT | TWO is greater than that of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX.

Thanks to Trek’s traditional hand-crafted carbon fiber bodywork process, Trek has achieved the maximum weight in terms of body weight. Secondly, in terms of price, Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is more economical and has made concessions in price.

The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX has also been upgraded with a more professional Fox Performance Float 36 fork in my preferred fork choice. Anyone who knows me will know that I like the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s Bontrager tires very well.

Compared to the DT SWISS tires used on the BMC Fourstroke 01, the Bontrager rims are thicker and the wheels are thicker. Smoother, stronger, and less likely to blow out, so we felt the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX was smoother when we rode it.

learn more: BMC Fourstroke 01 LT TWO Review – The Ultimate Enjoyment For Your Mountain Riding

Revel Rascal – GX Eagle vs Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX

As a consumer, when you see the price of the Revel Rascal – GX Eagle, you will definitely be a little excited because it is more affordable. Comparing the details of the two, in the material of the rim, in order to reduce the cost, the Revel Rascal – GX Eagle uses the Industry Nine Enduro S 1/1 29″ alloy Wheelset, although it is marked (*upgrade available).

Compared to the carbon fiber material of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX, the carbon fiber material absorbs more force when it is subjected to larger impacts, which means that the rider is more able to control the fast bike. Design-wise, if you’ve got the actual two bikes and felt them, you should be able to understand why I prefer the design of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX because of the placement and angle of the shocks.

I think Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX The EX 9.8 GX can more efficiently cooperate with the body to expand and contract, so as to maximize the absorption of vibrations and reduce the bumps of the body. On the professional track, it is more friendly to ride on the ground and roll quickly.

Learn more: Best Mountain Bikes Under $2000

Giant Trance X Advanced E+ 2 vs Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX

The Giant Trance X Advanced E+ 2 is all about high performance, and certainly at a high price. Comparing the various data of Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX, Giant has made some upgrades.

It can be seen that the travel of the suspension is 140mm in the front and 140mm in the rear. The Giant Trance X Advanced E+ 2 has some electric upgrades, such as a Yamaha 250W 85Nm mid-drive motor.

However, for some traditional riders, this is an optional feature. Of course, this kind of innovation and upgrading is also a major trend. Like I said, if you want a traditional ride and you’re not that comfortable with hybrids, I think you can wait until electric hybrids are more mature and try out this expensive model.

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

Learn more: Is Giant Trance X Advanced Pro 29 3 Worth Buying? [Giant Trance X Advanced Pro 29 3 review]

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2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX AXS Gen 6 Bike

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Trek Fuel EX 9.8 weight?

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Does anyone know how much it weighs out of the box?  

A bit over 26lbs. Works great for me, I leave my mates for dead on the climbs.  

I have a 17.5" (Virtual) 9.8. It's a bit upgraded from stock: '09 XTR cranks, cassette, triggers, thomson setback post, SLR carbonio saddle, XTR rear derailleur, and Stan's Olympics/DT240s wheelset running tubeless with Intense System 2's, and XTR SPDs and it weighs exact;y 25.92lbs on my Alpine scale. I don't believe that it weighs 26lbs out of the box. I bought mine used, so it had a few changes from stock: Thomson straight post and Bonty inForm RL saddle and XTR rear derailleur. It also had the stock Rhythm Elite wheelset and WTB weirwolf tires (not tubeless), it was almost 28lbs. The new MTBR has a mini-review of the 9.9, and they say it's 25.5lbs with XTR pedals. Other earlier reviews claimed the weight of the 9.9 at 23.5lbs, but that must have been way off now that I have the 9.8 and can find no way in hell to bring it down to that weight based on the parts I have on it now. I could probably drop a half pound on some lighter tires or maybe a different bar/stem, but not another 2 pounds! BTW, why on earth is the stock 9.9 about $3K more than the stock 9.8? Sorry, but $3K doesn't make for the difference in parts between the two. They share the exact same frame otherwise.  

26.6 out of the box 15.5". down to 26 even with xtr cogset, irc mibro tires, thompson masterpiece seatpost, specialized phenom sl saddle and truvativ world cup noir bars.  

Mine is a 15.5, so it's gonna be a bit litghter than your 17.5. As mark16q said, about 26.5 stock  

Sorry to hijack your thread, OP. I have an 09 EX9 on layaway. The EX 9.8 is $500 more than the EX9 for basically the same parts spec (except that the 9.8 has XT brakes and shifters, a Fox 120 RL fork and an XT rear der). I am debating whether to keep the EX9 and upgrade the wheels to Rythym Pro which will cost probably $300-$400 or pay the extra $500 and get the EX9.8. The main difference between the two bikes is the frame (carbon versus aluminum) and the 9.8 has slightly less travel than the EX9 --120 mm vs 130 mm, but the white carbon frame looks really sweet. Any thoughts? I ride mainly XC/agressive XC but no drops of more than 2-3 feet. Thanks for your help. TB.  

As far as I know, the EX9 is on sale to the end of June for $2799, but the EX 9.8 is not part of Trek's sale, so it's still listing at 4399 on their website...so quite a bit more than $500 price difference! I'm still puzzled as to how the 9.9 can be $3K more than the 9.8?!  

oh, the 9.8 also has some other "goodies" beyond the parts spec: the E2 oversized steerer system and the pressed in bottom bracket bearings (just insert your crank directly).  

trekboy79 said: Sorry to hijack your thread, OP. I have an 09 EX9 on layaway. The EX 9.8 is $500 more than the EX9 for basically the same parts spec (except that the 9.8 has XT brakes and shifters, a Fox 120 RL fork and an XT rear der). I am debating whether to keep the EX9 and upgrade the wheels to Rythym Pro which will cost probably $300-$400 or pay the extra $500 and get the EX9.8. The main difference between the two bikes is the frame (carbon versus aluminum) and the 9.8 has slightly less travel than the EX9 --120 mm vs 130 mm, but the white carbon frame looks really sweet. Any thoughts? I ride mainly XC/agressive XC but no drops of more than 2-3 feet. Thanks for your help. TB. Click to expand...

Thanks! I have heard good things about the Roval wheels.  

arashi said: FYI: With the Fuel EX9 you get an RP24 Fox front fork (It has compression adj and lock out thresh hold adj along with the standard rebound and lockout) which is basically a Fox F120 RLC that is custom tuned for Trek. That is a way better fork than the F120 RL (just rebound and lockout) that is on the Fuel EX9.8. Also, you get an X0 rear derailuer on the EX9 and a XT on the 9.8. IMHO you are compromising a lot in components just to get that carbon frame. Click to expand...

bryanus said: oh, the 9.8 also has some other "goodies" beyond the parts spec: the E2 oversized steerer system and the pressed in bottom bracket bearings (just insert your crank directly) . Click to expand...

bryanus said: Granted the RP24 has more adjustment over the F120RL, but even in this month's MBA they mention that the 4 position ProPedal is useless and they always left it fully open. And while the X-O rear may sport additional bling than over the "lowly" XT on the 9.8, it also means that you can only get the EX9 in SRAM drivetrain, whereas the 9.8 is all Shimano. I've never ridden anything but Shimano, and even though I swapped everything out for XTR on my 9.8 anyway, I would have preferred the Shimano stuff over SRAM personally. People should look at the 9.8 as an EX8 in terms of components, but with the same carbon frame as the 9.9. It's just the two models in that particular lineup. Click to expand...

The F120RL absolutely has compression, it's just not externally adjustable. There was a huge thread on this in one of the other forums, and the Push guy was saying taht tehre wasn't, but in the end he was thinking of a different fork and he concurred that the "RLs" do have a compression circuit. It's just not an adjustable option on the RL line.  

bryanus said: The F120RL absolutely has compression, it's just not externally adjustable. There was a huge thread on this in one of the other forums, and the Push guy was saying taht tehre wasn't, but in the end he was thinking of a different fork and he concurred that the "RLs" do have a compression circuit. It's just not an adjustable option on the RL line. Click to expand...

bryanus said: Granted the RP24 has more adjustment over the F120RL, but even in this month's MBA they mention that the 4 position ProPedal is useless and they always left it fully open. Click to expand...

rondre3000 said: Was this the July or June issue? I did notice a difference in lockout "force" between the Fseries RLC on my Stumpjumper and the RP24 on my current EX9. The lock'd out fork on the EX9 still gives out a little more than the F series when it is fully locked out. The F-series lockout feels rock solid. The RP24 feels more like a ProPedal platform. Firmer, but still gives some travel. -r. Click to expand...

Oh I should probably add that there is no way in hell I would buy the 9.8 if I didn't get mine for the price I paid for it! As you said, it's just insanely expensive and the Trek sale is a super incentive to get one of the aluminum ones. And as I mentioned before, how on earth can the 9.9 be an extra $3k OVER the 9.8???!! There just isn't an extra $3K in parts hanging on it to make up that price gap, especially when they share the same frame.  

Just wait a while and the prices will come down. Last year when the 09s started to come out I got a 08 EX 9.0 for $2700. This is a carbon frame all XT bike. There are always good deals for those that are patient. Best, John  

For those interested, I just weighed my 18.5" EX9 at the LBS. Bone stock with a CatEye wireless computer and my Shimano PD-M647 pedals it weighed in at 27.6lbs -r.  

Where are you guys buying your bikes at??? I have always recieved a huge discount off MSRP on Trek bikes. My EX 9.8 was well over $1000 off the $4400 MSRP, and I bought it around Feb/Mar when it first came out.  

rondre3000 said: For those interested, I just weighed my 18.5" EX9 at the LBS. Bone stock with a CatEye wireless computer and my Shimano PD-M647 pedals it weighed in at 27.6lbs -r. Click to expand...

Nope. Not yet at least. The only changes I've made to the bike are removing all reflectors and that plastic ring behind the cassette, added a Cateye wireless computer and swapped the CrankBros clipless for Shimano PD-M647 pedals.  

I might be able to pickup a used '09 9.8 used for approx 3K. Good deal? it's a 15.5 inch frame, I am 5-8" do you think the bike will fit me? thanks  

I reckon that will be borderline. I'm 5-5" and ride a 15.5, it fits me great. There's a bit of adjustment left but not loads. I suggest you test ride it. And 3k for a 9.8 is great - I paid the equivalent of $5.5k for it in the UK!  

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2021 Trek Fuel Ex 9.8 GX Full Carbon FOX Susp

Centerville , UT | 1 Day

Description

$3250 OBO Incredible bike, and priced to sell. Gen5, Full Carbon, very clean, well maintained Fuel 9.8. $6350 new, plus $700 of accessories/upgrades. New tubeless Maxxis Minion tires (first set of replacement tires). Incredible price. Please message or text me, if interested. Only reason for selling is I increased to a size large.

No trades* 801’808’4083

Fuel EX 9.8 combines a light full-carbon frame with parts chosen for the highest performance-to-price ratio. High-end 130mm rear and 140mm front FOX suspension with upgraded front and rear dampers, carbon wheels with a Rapid Drive rear hub, and SRAM's latest, widest-range drivetrain give this model an extra edge you'll notice from the first pedal stroke.

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'A world-class trail bike!'

'The Fuel EX is a beautifully balanced and capable trail bike. The rear suspension is beautiful; as close to ideal as any bike I've ridden. It's sensitive where you want it to be, firm and crisp where it should be. It feels deep and controls big hits very well, and there's a nice platform for pedalling, and to pump and pop off when you're playing.'

'Good at pleasing everybody.'

'The Fuel EX has a few tricks that help it keep a level head when outside of its comfort zone, and to be a cloud on rails when it's in the zone. Everything about the Fuel EX, which was already good at pleasing everybody, is now even better.'

'An absolute trail rocket.'

'Thanks to its burlier components, increased travel and more aggressive geometry, it has become more of a shredder than ever! More performance, fun and trail prowess.'

‘Perfect all-rounder’

‘In a world where most new full-suspension mountain bikes are amazing, Fuel EX stands apart as even more than that.’

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