trek fuel ex 9.9 project one 2019

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Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Weight / M - 12.19 kg / 26.87 lbs (with tubes)

At a glance

Fuel EX 9.9 is our best 130mm trail bike. A carbon frame, carbon wheels, a 1×12 SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain, and FOX Factory Float suspension make this the one carbon full suspension mountain bike that rules every trail. It’s fast on XC singletrack, light on climbs, and stable through the rowdiest terrain you can find.

Where To Buy

"Way ahead of the pack"

"The faster our test riders pushed, the better the bike felt, inspiring more confidence than a bike in this suspension category should. Fuel EX makes a strong argument for itself as a do-it-all trail machine that is pure fun to rip."

"Lightning fast and wildly fun"

"Trek has elevated the Fuel EX's performance even further. This latest iteration feels just as quick on the climbs, but when it's time to descend, it's less phased by steep and technical trails than ever before."

"A bike with fire in its belly"

"A trail hammering speed machine, lightweight, incredibly well built, and so beautifully constructed. A genuinely quick and balanced trail bike that's bang up to date in angles and ride dynamic."

Specifications

• Frame OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame & stays, ABP, Boost148, Knock Block steerer stop, Full Floater, EVO link, tapered head tube, Mino Link, Control Freak internal routing, Carbon Armor, PF92, ISCG 05, G2 Geometry, 130mm travel
• Fork Fox Factory 34 Float, FIT4 3-position damper, tapered steerer, Kashima Coat, Boost110, G2 Geometry w/51mm offset, 130mm travel
• Shock Fox Factory Float EVOL, RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft 3-position damper, Kashima Coat, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210x52.5mm
• Wheel Size 29"
• Tires Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, 120tpi, aramid bead, 29x2.40˝
• Chain SRAM GX Eagle
• Crank SRAM X01 Eagle carbon DUB, 32T Direct Mount
• Shifters SRAM X01 Eagle, 12 speed
• Brakeset Shimano Deore XT M8020 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 35mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada Pro, carbon rails
• Seatpost Bontrager Line, internal routing, 31.6mm, 15.5: 100mm, 17.5 & 18.5: 125mm, 19.5 & 21.5: 150mm
• Stem Bontrager Line Pro, Knock Block, 35mm clamp, 0 degree
• Grips Bontrager XR Trail Elite, alloy lock-on
• Headset Knock Block Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8˝ top, 1.5˝ bottom

Q: Where to buy a 2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29?

The 2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 weigh?

A 2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 weights M - 12.19 kg / 26.87 lbs (with tubes).

Q: What size wheels does the 2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 have?

The 2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 has 29" wheels.

Q: What size 2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 should I get?

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Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS Project One on test – one bike, endless possibilities!

The Trek Fuel EX 9.9 is a classic in the trail bike segment. Last year, Trek completely redesigned the bike, putting a storage compartment in the down tube, updating the geometry and revising the suspension. We’ll tell you whether the new Fuel EX can build on the success of its predecessor.

Click here for an overview of the best trail bike in test .

If you’ve got a big enough budget, you can create your very own Fuel EX dream bike thanks to Trek’s Project One program. The customisation available for the paint job is almost limitless and there are some very fancy finishes to choose from. Our favourite is undoubtedly the ICON/Refliptive option. Trek have increased the travel of the Fuel EX and the 29er now offers 140 mm up front and 130 mm on the rear. The latter is controlled by a FOX 36 Factory fork with a GRIP2 damper and a specially developed RockShox Deluxe RT3 shock with RE:aktiv damping and Thru Shaft technology. The shock design, exclusive to Trek, sees the whole piston rod move through the body of the shock when compressed, making an IFP (internal floating piston) to compensate for volume changes when the shock compresses unnecessary. Without the additional seals of an IFP, which add friction, the shock should respond more sensitively and react more quickly to impacts. The rest of the componentry of the € 9,099 Project One bike leaves little to be desired. The SRAM AXS components and Shimano XTR four-piston brakes are tried and tested. The only two things we would have changed are a longer dropper post to replace the standard 150 mm version and grippier tires. The 2.6” Bontrager XR4 tires couldn’t convince us and should be swapped before you leave the shop. We were also annoyed by the chain constantly slapping the chainstay when riding in a hard gear.

Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS Project ONE

Specifications.

Fork FOX 36 FLOAT Factory GRIP2 Rear Shock FOX Float RE:aktiv Thru Shaft Seatpost RockShox Reverb AXS 150 mm Brakes Shimano XTR M9120 (Serie XT) 200/180 mm Drivetrain SRAM X01 Eagle AXS 32/10-50 Stem Bontrager Line Pro 50 Handlebar Bontrager Line Pro 780 mm Wheelset Bontrager Carbon 30 Tires Bontrager XR4-Team Issue 120 TPI 120 2,6

Technical Data

Size XS S M L XL Weight 13,08 kg Wheelsize 29" Travel (f/r) 140/130 mm

Geometry of the Trek Fuel EX 9.9

Trek have never been known for extreme geometry and the Fuel EX doesn’t buck that trend. The 470 mm reach in size L is just right, the head angle is not particularly slack at 66° and the 75° seat tube angle is rather conservative. On top of that, the effective seat tube angle slackensas you extend the dropper post due to the bend in the seat tube. Like the Slash, the Fuel EX features the Mino Link flip chip to adjust the geometry, but we always left it in the slacker setting.

With Trek’s Project One program, there are almost no limits to your own creativity – if you’re dreaming of a custom paint job, this is what you need!

The Fuel EX on test

The Fuel EX gives you that typical Trek feeling right from the start. The riding position is slightly stretched due to the slack seat tube angle and the front is low. This is perfect for going fast on level terrain. However, you should push the saddle forward if you’re going to tackle steep climbs. Thanks to the firm suspension and light wheels, the Fuel EX accelerates very willingly and conserves your energy on long rides. Light-footed as it is, the bike masters technical climbs with ease, but the Bontrager tires lack grip on wet roots.

The Fuel EX is a super versatile bike – efficient on the climbs and balanced on the descents!

The tires also leave the bike struggling on the descents. As this put it far behind the competition, we tested the Fuel EX with different tires fitted. The position on the bike is central and the handling is super intuitive. This makes the Trek an easy bike to ride fast. Changing direction is quick and easy and the bike motivates you to manual or catch air as soon as you hit a roller or lip. The agile handling only becomes a disadvantage in really rough terrain where it takes a strong rider to keep the bike on course. At high speeds, the firm suspension doesn’t help here either and despite the Thru Shaft technology in the shock, the rear doesn’t respond as sensitively as the best bikes in the test.

Tuning tip: swap the tires | push the saddle forward | better chainstay protector

How does the Fuel EX compare to the competition?

The firm character of the Trek Fuel EX is not unlike the Norco Optic C1, though the Trek does offer more comfort overall. Aggressive riders are better off with the Norco due to the added support of the suspension and more progressive geometry. Relaxed riders, on the other hand, will find a more versatile and good-natured bike in the Trek.

Riding Characteristics

Value for money, intended use, conclusion of the trek fuel ex.

The Trek Fuel EX is a great all-rounder that offers very intuitive and good-natured handling. It’s a very efficient and playful bike, but it lacks composure in demanding terrain. If you’re looking for one bike to do it all, this is it – as long as you fit different tires.

• light-footed and efficient climber
• intuitive, good-natured and fun handling
• storage compartment in the down tube for tools or food

• not the most sensitive rear end
• tires lack grip

For more information head to trekbikes.com

The test field

All bikes in review: Cannondale Habit Carbon 1 (Click for review) | Canyon Spectral CFR 9.0 SL (Click for review) | Giant Trance Advanced Pro 29 (Click for review) | Ibis Ripmo AXS (Click for review) | Nukeproof Reactor 290 (Click for review) | Norco Optic C1 (Click for review) | Orbea Occam M-LTD (Click for review) | Radon Slide Trail 10 (Click for review) | Santa Cruz Hightower CC X01 Reserve (Click for review) | Scott Genius 900 Tuned AXS (Click for review) | Specialized Levo SL Expert Carbon (Click for review) | Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper SRAM AXS 29 (Click for review) | Yeti SB130 TLR (Click for review) | YT JEFFSY CF PRO (Click for review)

This scale indicates how efficiently the bike climbs. It refers to both simple and technical climbs. Along with the suspension, the riding position and the weight of the bike all play a crucial role. ↩

How does the bike ride and descend? How spritely is the bike, how agile is it through corners, how much fun is it in tight sections and how quickly can it change direction? ↩

Is the bike stable at high speeds? Is it easy to stay in control in demanding terrain? How composed is it on rough trails? Stability is a combination of balanced geometry, good suspension and the right spec. ↩

This is all about how balanced the bike is and particularly about how well it corners. Balanced bikes require little physical effort from the rider and are very predictable. If a bike is unbalanced, the rider has to work hard to weight the front wheel to generate enough grip. However, experienced riders can have a lot of fun even with unbalanced bikes. ↩

How sensitive is the suspension over small bumps? Can it absorb hard impacts and does it soak up repeated hits? Plush suspension not only provides comfort and makes a bike more capable, but it also generates traction. The rating includes the fork and the rear suspension. ↩

This aspect mainly comes down to the suspension. How much pop does it have, does it suck up the rider’s input or is it supportive, and how agile and direct is the bike? ↩

We don’t calculate value for money in an excel spreadsheet or based on how high-end a bike is specced. We are more concerned with how a bike performs on the trail and how the bike benefits the rider. What good are the best components if the bike doesn’t perform well on the trail? Expensive bikes with a lower-end spec can offer very good value for money – provided they excel where it matters. Just as supposedly cheap bikes with good components can get a bad rating if they don’t deliver on the trail. ↩

No, it’s not about racing, it’s about efficiency. Fast, fleet-footed and efficient – those who want to speed along flowy singletrack and gravel roads need a defined and spritely bike that accelerates with ease and efficiency. Nevertheless, reliable components are important too. We interpret XC more like the Americans do: big back-country rides instead of a marathon or XC World Cup with the ultimate in lightweight construction! Uphill-downhill ratio: 80:30 (not everything has to be 100%!) ↩

...also known as mountain biking. Classic singletrack with roots, rocks and ledges – sometimes flowy, sometimes rough. For this, you need a bike with good all-round qualities, whether climbing or descending. Uphill-downhill ratio: 50:50 ↩

Even more extreme and challenging compared to Trail riding, riddled with every kind of obstacle: jumps, gaps, nasty rock gardens, ruts and roots. For this, you need (race)proven equipment that forgives mistakes and wouldn’t look out of place on a stage of the Enduro World Series. Climbing is just a means to an end. Uphill-downhill ratio: 30:70 ↩

Strictly speaking, a 200 mm travel downhill bike is the best choice for merciless tracks with big jumps, drops and the roughest terrain. Those would be the black or double-black-diamond tracks in a bike park. But as some of the EWS pros (including Sam Hill) have proven, it’s the riding skills and not the bike that define what you can ride with it. Climbing? On foot or with a shuttle, please! Uphill-downhill ratio: 10:90 ↩

You can find more info about our rating system in this article: Click here! ↩

Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more .

Words: Photos: Christoph Bayer, Finlay Anderson, Markus Frühmann, Jonas Müssig

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Trek Fuel EX 9.9 first ride review

• Jamie Darlow
• October 8, 2022

More travel, more progression, more geometry adjustment, more sizes - the Trek Fuel EX gets the Oliver Twist makeover.

Trek Fuel EX Credit: Roo Fowler

Product Overview

Trek fuel ex 9.9.

• Great sizing, and range of sizes. Brilliant geometry, and ability to tweak it as you want. Quality, damped frame with beautiful finish and details.
• Incredible price. The shock is overdamped. One-piece carbon bar is too wide. Tyres are unpredictable.

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:.

Trek has launched a brand new version of the Fuel EX trail bike, and with it a ton of new features and updates to address pretty much any quibble you had with the old bike. We’re talking about: a chip to let you tune the progression of the shock; head angle adjustment to complement the existing Mino Link; size specific chainstays; downtube storage across the whole range; more travel; and loads more.

It was a great bike before, a bike test winner in fact and one of the best full suspension mountain bikes we’d ever ridden. The new bike promises to take that a stage further.

Fuel EX frame is a work of art, with oversized carbon tubing and a liquid custard paintjob

Need to know

• Head angle goes as slack as 63.5° thanks to new headset cups that complement the Minnow Link chips
• Longer, lower and slacker geometry, with a steeper seat tube angle for better pedalling
• Travel is up by 10mm from the old bike, to 140mm front, 150mm rear
• Eight sizes, 29in wheels predominate, with 27.5in on the smallest sizes
• New progression chip lets you tweak the shock position and add more platform
• Fuel EX can take almost any shock on the market, Trek says, coil and air
• Six models in the range, alloy and carbon: from £3,300 for the Fuel EX 7 to £11,750 for the 9.9 XX1 AXS

EX or EXe… Spot the difference

First though, how similar does the new Fuel EX look to the also-new Fuel EXe e-bike? They even sport the same travel. This is deliberate; Trek wants you to make a choice between the bikes based on how much help you want, not on how the bikes look, how much travel they bring or the ride feel they deliver.

That means the new Fuel EX looks like an e-bike that in turn looks like a regular bike. Whaaat?!

10mm more travel

So to the new Fuel EX. Trek has boosted the travel by 10mm, taking it to 140mm rear and 150mm front. Because who doesn’t want more travel? Also, Trek’s thinking is that the Fuel EX can be more than just a trail bike if it wants, so there are options to increase the travel further, swap the wheel sizes and even fit a different shock.

The Fox 36 fork looks positively dinky on the new Fuel EX frame

Longer, lower, slacker, steeper

LLSS is the new LLS. Just like on the old bike, the new Fuel EX comes with Minnow Link, two little flip chips on the rocker link that let you change the BB height and head angle. That means the head angle is down to 64.5° in the slack setting, a full degree slacker than when we tested the old version of the bike.

The BB height is lower too – on paper it’s just 2mm, but with 10mm more travel to contend with this means at sag the bike will hug the ground more closely. The Minnow Link changes that BB too of course, raising or lowering it by 8mm.

Minnow Link is now more useable, with a properly low setting that drops the BB and slackens the head angle

All told, the new bike’s high position gives it the same geometry figures the old bike commanded in its low position, with the longer fork slotted into both bikes. This makes the Minnow Link a lot more usable now, you won’t just be slinging it into low position and forgetting about it.

Trek has taken a leaf from the Specialized brochure, and gone with adjustable headset cups, so you can tune the head angle +/- 1°. That’s useful if you want to keep the bottom bracket the same height, and independently change your head angle.

It works like this – the upper cup just drops in, and you turn it 180° to steepen or slacken the angle. The lower cup is more fiddly, it needs to be pressed in but the bike comes with it installed. The cups have notches and laser-engraved guides to help you install them straight.

Bontrager carbon wheels are excellent, but the SE5 Team Issue tyres lack bite

What, no mullet?

The Fuel EX remains a 29in wheel bike in most of the eight sizes on offer (XS-XXL). The exceptions are the diddiest XS which is 27.5in and the S which you can get as a 29er or 27.5in. There’s nothing stopping you putting a 27.5in wheel in the back of the Fuel EX though, and Trek actually endorses this, with suggestions on how to set it up. Put it in the high mode, and adjust the air assembly in the fork to give you 160mm travel to keep the BB from getting pedal-bonkingly low, it says.

Sizing has grown with the new bike, each size is 10-20mm bigger in the reach measurement. Fortunately, to compensate for that longer front end, Trek has built a longer back end too – the chainstays are at last size specific and range from 435mm on the XS bike up to 450mm on the XXL. The seat tube is steeper this time around too, for a better climbing position, so in theory when you’re sat down and pedalling you won’t notice the extra length in the bike because you’ll be shunted forwards.

One final word on geometry, there’s now a chart on the Trek website to let you see how the geometry will change when you tinker with the adjustment hardwear.

Trek has introduced more progression, should you want it, thanks to a flip chip

The suspension

Here’s the big change, in my mind. If the old bike had a flaw it was that the suspension didn’t have much of a platform. Instead it was sensitive off the top. On reflection, is that really a flaw in a trail bike? We didn’t think so, but plenty of riders are looking for more progression, so Trek has added some. Or more accurately, the ability to add some, with a progression chip.

The new frame lets you adjust the position of the shock by moving the lower mounting point further aft and increasing the leverage rate, building in more of a platform. And for those who liked the suspension feel just fine before, just leave the chip unchanged.

If looks could thrill

The Fuel EX looks plenty like its predecessor, but there are some subtle changes conjured up by Trek to make room for all the features included, like the progression chip. The shock has shifted further forward, the idea being to give it more space and allow for every shock on the market to fit in there. “If it’s out there it’ll fit on this bike,” Trek says.

Trek’s made more space around the shock, meaning you’ll be able to fit pretty much any shock going

In practice that means every shock from Fox, RockShox, DVO, Push and MRP can be fitted to the Fuel EX. There are exceptions, largely if you’re trying to fit one of the really big reservoir shocks into a size small frame, Trek seys.

The bike has moved to a 34.9 seatpost now, which is stiffer and more reliable too, particularly at the 200mm length in XXL bikes, while frame storage now comes on the alloy bikes as well as carbon frames. Inside both carbon and alloy bikes is fully guided internal cable routing. Outside is a full length, removable plastic guard on the downtube.

Top end Project One bike is a playboy price, just under £12,000, but there are plenty of better value bikes in the range

With six models in the range, eight sizes, and two different wheel sizes, the Fuel EX is a distributor’s nightmare… and a rider’s dream.

The entry level Fuel EX 5 isn’t new; it uses last year’s frame, meaning you get 130/140mm travel and entry level components. The 7 is an alloy bike and uses the new chassis and its new downtube storage and retails at £3,300, while the 8 is still alloy but introduces 36mm stanchion forks and the Float X shock for £4,000.

There are three Fuel EX 9 models, and all use a full carbon fibre frame. The 9.7 is the entry level carbon bike and costs £4,800 with a Shimano SLX/XT drivetrain. Step up to 9.8 and you gain XT or GX AXS shifting for £6,850 or £7,450 respectively, while the top end 9.9 features full XTR or XX1 AXS at £9,900 or £11,750.

Cut the bars down and let some air out of the tyres and the Fuel EX takes off

How it rides

The Fuel EX 9.9 comes with a one-piece, carbon-fibre bar and stem, and at 830mm (including grips) it’s way too wide and flexy to ride well. I lopped it down to 780mm and at a stroke that cured the front end problems I’d been having – chiefly, the scary undamped sensation when pitching into steep corners. The Bontrager tyres have been hard to get on with too, at 2.5in wide and without pronounced side lugs it’s hard to make them bite into soft terrain. I dropped the pressures down to improve the feel… and I mean way down, 19psi in the front and 21psi in the rear to make the ride less pingy and more predictable. I probably could have gone further too, given there was no squirm even that low, while the sidewalls proved effective at fending off pinchflats.

That done, the bike was free to ride like its true self. The Fox Float X shock is supple off the top and bobs a little going uphill, but the EX is an expert climber probably because it gets great traction from the active shock, while the steep seat angle and long chainstays pitch you forwards. That aggressive seat angle disguises just how big this XL bike is too, it has a huge 515mm reach making it one of the longest bike’s I’ve ever ridden. In fact, I could probably step down a size, although there’s a huge jump down to the Large with its 485mm reach. All told though, the bike feels compact enough when sat down and pedalling yet long in reach when out of the saddle.

Big sizing puts you in the ideal position on the bike for maximum confidence

The Fuel EX retains the stiff and bombproof feel of the old bike, it’s very direct and trails have a hard time deflecting it off course. The carbon frame has a great, damped feel, it’ll bulldoze its way across off-camber sections and let you set up wide, yet somehow manages to cushion you from the worst of the trail chunder you’re trucking over.

The suspension is supple and works well right off the top, but I did have to wind off all the low speed compression damping to make it come alive, which makes me think it’s overdamped. Fully open though, there’s plenty of traction in the dry and loose conditions I rode in, with enough support for trail riding.

The Fuel EX is a precision ride, able to pick through the roots or dance over them

When I back-to-backed the EX with the EXe the e-bike felt more like an enduro bike, with better suspension and simply more control on the trail. This is really interesting because both bikes have identical components and suspension travel, and both felt slightly overdamped. With the right shock I’m perfectly prepared to believe the Fuel EX could work well as an enduro bike then – the frame can certainly handle it.

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• The Trek Fuel EXe review

Trek knows how to make a well finished bike, and the Fuel EX is the latest demonstration of this. It’s ridiculously well finished, everything from the down tube storage to the new steerer-hidden BITS multitool and the bolted-on (not glued) chainstay protector is solid and reliable. The Fuel gets better in every iteration, the only problem is now you can get it with a motor in… too tempting for some riders, myself included.

2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 Bike (discontinued)

• Write Review

Specifications

Sizes and geometry.

​​ www.trekbikes.com ​

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Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XTR Project One in bikepacking review

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.

For an overview of the test fleet head to the group test: The best bikepacking bike in review

“What are the GRAN FONDO guys doing with a full suspension mountain bike?” It’s a relevant question. However, if you take a look at the bikepacking scene, you’ll see that full-suspension mountain bikes are quite widespread. As well as that, with two former downhill racers, Robin and Ben, on the test team, we wanted to see if they’ve still got the skills. 😉 Our sister magazine, ENDURO claims that the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 is well-suited to long-distance rides. Reason enough to put it to the test and have it represent full-sussers in our gravel bike group test. You want to know everything about bikepacking and bikes, gear, route planning and accommodation? Click here for our detailed Bikepacking 101 .

In addition to a wide range of custom paint jobs, Trek have specced the Fuel EX with a 29″ Bontrager Line Pro 30 OCLV Mountain carbon wheelset and it offers 140 mm travel up front and 130 mm at the rear. The former is controlled by a FOX 36 Factory GRIP2 fork and the latter by a specially developed RockShox Deluxe RT3 shock with RE:aktiv damping and Thru Shaft technology. The Thru Shaft technology allows the piston rod to move through the body of the shock when compressed, instead of displacing oil into an IFP (internal floating piston) reservoir. By negating the additional seals of an IFP, there should be less internal friction, allowing the shock to respond more sensitively and react to impacts quicker. The remaining components of the € 8,899 Project One bike leave almost nothing to be desired: A 1×12 Shimano XTR M9100 groupset including XTR M9120 four-piston brakes and a high-quality cockpit consisting of 50 mm Bontrager Line Pro 35 stem and 800 mm wide Bontrager Line Pro carbon handlebar. In size L, the Trek weighs 13.18 kg and while it’s the heaviest in the test field, it’s only 1.73 kg heavier than the RONDO. The weight difference seems almost ridiculous when you consider how much more capable the Trek is off-road.

Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XTR Project One

Specifications.

Seatpost Bontrager Line Elite Brakes Shimano XTR BR/BL M9120 203/180 mm Drivetrain Shimano XTR 32 (10–51) Stem Bontrager Line Pro 35 50 mm Handlebar Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon 800 mm Wheelset Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon Tires Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 66C

Technical Data

Size XS S M L XL Weight 13.18 kg Wheelsize 700C

Specific Features

full-suspension storage box in the down tube customisable Projekt One paint job adjustable geometry

With the Trek, bikepacking finds its way back to its roots. Literally and figuratively!

Due to the 75° seat tube angle, which is moderate for a bike in its class, the riding position on the Trek is slightly stretched and not unfamiliar. The front end is low for a trail bike too, which adds to the bike’s familiar feeling compared to a gravel bike. Of course, the Trek doesn’t stand a chance against the test field when it comes to acceleration and speed. However, with the bike’s relatively firm suspension, you’ll be surprised how small of a compromise you have to accept when climbing! On very steep climbs, the Trek will even keep up with the test field. This is thanks to the bike’s high level of traction and the wide gear range of the XTR drivetrain. On single-digit inclines, the bikes with drop bars will soon pull away.

However, with a full-suspension bike, you’ll be able to catch up on the descents. Regardless of whether it’s a gravel road, moderate singletrack or challenging terrain, the Trek’s comfort, composure and descending capabilities are unmatched in the test field. Your position on the bike is centred and the handling is super intuitive. As such, the Trek makes easy work of navigating tight corners. Once you’ve gotten used to the 800 mm wide handlebar, or shortened it accordingly, direction changes are lightning quick and the bike begs you to manual or bunny hop off rollers and ledges. The storage compartment in the down tube offers enough space for CO2 cartridges, tools and spare tubes. Apart from that, the small front triangle hardly offers any storage space and the complete lack of mounting points on the frame and fork make carrying a backpack a necessary evil. Due to the dropper seat post, you’ll also be significantly restricted in your choice of saddlebag.

Tuning tips: chainstay protector

The Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XTR Project One convinced us with its intuitive and good-natured handling. It’s very playful on the descents, spoils its rider with comfort regardless of the terrain and you’ll never find yourself lacking in confidence. If you live and ride in alpine terrain and you’re not bothered by carrying a backpack, a full suspension bike like the Trek is a viable alternative. If you want to cover longer distances on moderate terrain and on the road, you’ll find significantly more versatile options.

• 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

For more info head to trekbikes.com .

The test field

All bikes in test: Bombtrack Hook 2 (Click for review) | Canyon Grail AL 7.0 SL (Click for review) | Fern Chuck Explorer (Click for review) | Marin Headlands 2 (Click for review) | Mason Bokeh GRX (Click for review) | MERIDA SILEX+ 8000-E (Click for review) | RONDO BOGAN (Click for review) | ROSE BACKROAD AXS Mullet Build (Click for review) | Salsa Cutthroat GRX 600 (Click for review) | Specialized Diverge Comp Carbon (Click for review) | Specialized S-Works Epic HT AXS Custom (Click for review) | Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XTR Project One

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Words: Photos: Benjamin Topf, Robin Schmitt, Valentin Rühl

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Results have arrived, trek fuel ex 9.9 29 project one mountain bike - 2019, 18.5", item #bmt22509, condition: certified pre-owned what's this, every certified pre-owned bike passes our multi-point inspection.

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Quiver Killer Trail Bike

The Fuel EX is the definition of a modern trail bike, and is Trek’s most well-rounded MTB. With the introduction of Trek's Knock-Block technology and a "straight shot" downtube, this generation of the Fuel EX frame got noticeably stiffer in all the best ways. Another great change was the increase in tire clearance, allowing you to run wider tires for better traction whether 27.5" or 29"! With more travel than the Top Fuel and less travel than the Remedy, it’s capable on descents and quick on climbs. Meet your ticket to fast and fun.

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• Light scuff on drive-side top tube & seatstay.
• Light scratches on brake levers, handlebar & rear derailleur.
• Light scratches on front suspension lower legs.
• Moderate scuffs & scratches on the wheelset.
• Small paint chip on seatstay bridge, drive-side chainstay & chainstay bridge.
• Small paint chip underneath the top tube.

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Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 first ride review

Trek's latest trail bike is one to watch

Josh Patterson / Immediate Media

Josh Patterson

Spirited handling; good suspension performance

Ultra low bottom bracket might not suit everyone; proprietary headset

Trek popped the top on the 27.5 versions of the new Fuel EX in late May. Now Trek is ready to unveil the rest of the 2017 Fuel EX line. The latest Fuel EX is lower and slacker, with more travel than ever before.

Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29 highlights

• 130mm front and rear travel
• Adjustable geometry
• 27.5 compatible
• Full OCLV carbon frame
• 25lb/11.3kg weight (size 17.5)
• Offered in five frame sizes
• Available now

A harder-hitting trail bike

It appears Trek’s design team has been paying close attention to the desires of trail riders, many of whom have been gravitating toward short-travel 29ers with slack geometry, and redesigned the Fuel EX accordingly.

“We saw the direction trail bikes are heading — riders are getting much more aggressive and we wanted to make a bike that was very capable, but that could still be ridden all day,” said Trek’s mountain bike brand manager Travis Ott.

The previous iteration of Trek’s best-selling mountain bike featured 120mm of matched suspension travel. The new Fuel EX gets a bump in travel to 130mm at both ends. More noteworthy than the slight increase in suspension numbers is a significant overhaul of the bike’s geometry.

Like its predecessor, the latest generation uses Trek’s Mino Link to tune the suspension between a high and steeper setting or a lower and slacker position. In the low mode — which, by the way, is the position this tester has had most fun with — the Fuel EX sports a confidence-inspiring 67-degree head tube angle, a low bottom bracket height of 13.1in / 33.5cm, and chainstays that measure in at just 17in / 433mm.

Where the previous Fuel EX felt much like a long-legged marathon XC machine, this incarnation is very much a wanton trail reaper. The new bike’s aggressive geometry is close enough to the much-lauded Remedy 29 that there would have been significant overlap between the two families. As a result, Trek will only offer the Remedy in a 27.5in versions for 2017.

Spirited and sporty handling

The Fuel EX 9.9 29 makes short work of rough trails, but not in the same manner as some longer-travel 29ers. It doesn’t numb terrain the way big wheels with more suspension travel are apt to do. Instead, it retains a playful, huck-happy demeanor. In the slackest mode, the 67-degree head angle is right on par for a bike of this breed. The short chainstays and low bottom bracket make this bike easy to carve though turns and responsive to quick changes in rider posture.

While pedal-scrapping bottom bracket heights are trending across the industry right now, they do require the rider to be more attentive to timing and positioning when pedaling though rough terrain. It’s certainly not a deal-breaker, but it is something to be mindful of.

If, like me, you find you prefer the handling of the Fuel EX in the lower setting but need a bit more breathing room between the pedals and the mother earth, one possible solution is to mount a longer-travel fork in place of the stock 130mm model.

In addition to compatibility with longer forks, all the bikes of the Fuel EX 29 line are also compatible with 27.5 wheels. The 27.5 Fuel EX models unveiled earlier this summer share the same frame as the 29in Fuel EX 29. To preserve handling, Trek suggests replacing the stock 130mm fork with a 140mm version.

• Trek fattens up with the Fuel EX 27.5

Don’t go overboard, however. A 140mm fork is the longest travel fork Trek recommends using with the Fuel EX platform.

Frame features

Trek’s catalog of mountain bike technologies are featured in the Fuel EX 9.9 29. The full OCLV carbon frame has internal routing through the down tube and relies on Trek’s ABP suspension system with the aforementioned Mino Link.

New for the Fuel EX is the ‘Knock Block’ headset and bumper system, which prevents the fork crown from impacting the down tube — a feature made necessary by the straight junction between the down tube and head tube. Trek claims this design bolsters front-end stiffness, albeit at the expense of fork clearance.

It’s refreshing to see that Trek still sees a need for chainguide tabs on trail bikes. While chain retention is much improved with clutch derailleurs and narrow-wide chainrings, it’s not perfect. The ability to run a bashguard is also a plus for bikes with low bottom brackets.

Initial equipment observations

As the top bike in the line, the Fuel EX 9.9 29 comes with a premium build to back up the high price tag.

Rear suspension is handled by Fox Factory Float shock with Trek’s RE:aktiv valving. The shock tune appears to have been firmed up from previous versions of this regressive damper, which was apt to blow through its travel when it encountered high-velocity impacts.

While still early in the testing stages, it has proven to absorb square-edge impacts without diving too deeply into the stroke. Unlike the RE:aktiv shock on the Remedy 29 tested last year, there’s no need to add a volume reducer to firm things up.

• Inside Trek’s RE:aktiv damper

Although the bike comes equipped with a 125mm dropper, most frame sizes could easily accommodate 150mm version. While we’re discussing droppers, Bontrager’s new Drop Line seatpost appears very well executed. It’s too early to discuss durability, but the action is smooth and the ergonomics of the 1x-specific under bar lever are spot-on. Look for a full Drop Line review in the coming months.

Last but certainly not least on the list of standout components is SRAM’s Eagle X01 drivetrain. Even diehard 1x zealots have to admit there are situations where having a granny gear is advantageous and if a massive 50t cog doesn’t count as a bailout gear, I don’t know what does.

This new 1x12 drivetrain offers a wide gear range that may get 1x naysayers onboard with single-ring drivetrains, provided they’re willing to stomach the cost.

• Five reasons why SRAM Eagle means the end of front derailleurs

Early verdict

While testing has just begun, the Fuel EX 9.9 29 is off to a promising start. Handling is good and the stock shock tune appears to be improved from past versions. Check back for a full review.

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TESTED: Trek Fuel EX 9.9

The not-so-minor details.

Trek Fuel EX 9.9

https://www.trekbikes.com

An ideal trail bike for adventures. Buttery smooth suspension. Holds its own in the black run trails.

Rattling brake pads. Heavy thumb lever for dropper.

Planning a trip to Derby late last year we were faced with a tough call to make, what bike should we take for someone who’s never been there before?

The Fjord Lord, our friend from Terrengsykkel, Norway’s best mountain bike magazine was visiting, and he’s a great photographer and keen adventurer, but he was bike-less Down Under.

It’s not as simple as it might sound, that place is not suited to just one style of bike, there’s a vast variety of trails there! Derby covers the whole spectrum, from Enduro World Series rock gardens that will eat your wheels as an entree to mellow all-day singletrack rides through the lush wilderness. But there are jumpsquicker are climbs, there are berms, gaps, rocks, mud, dust, arrrrrgh, what to do!?

We were going to be carrying camera gear and riding all-day and riding many trails for the first time. So, it had to be light, tough, and confident. It would most likely suit a 29er, they seem less phased by changing terrain than 27.5” wheel bikes. The suspension needed to be enough to handle the rocks, but not too much to lug around the green and blue trails.

We narrowed it down to two bikes, got on the phone and made it happen. Mick would take the Specialized Stumpjumper 27.5” we already had on review, and Kristoffer would take the Trek Fuel EX 9.9, a lustrous matte-black beauty with a chunky carbon frame, 140mm of travel and a high-end spec.

We felt the Fuel EX was a good match for the job, so how’d it go? Read on.

130mm travel.

Bikes with around 130mm of travel tend to fit well into the ‘all-rounder’ category, they have a little more bounce than short-travel cross-country race bikes, but you don’t seem to get too lost in it like you would 150mm when pedalling around at moderate speeds on mellow trails. It’s a nice balance to feel engaged, yet still controlled.

We’ve had great times on the Fuel EX over the years, we’ve ridden them all, from the long, light-but-flexy 2014 model to the lively 27.5” wheel Fuel EX we had two of on long term test, both had been to Derby with us before. It’s a familiar bike we get along with well, it has its focus firmly set on the trail riding segment, and with the Remedy and Top Fuel on either side of it, there are options if you want to go bigger or smaller in travel.

Stretched out and robust.

The Fuel EX is a roomy bike, with plenty of reach to form a strong and open brace position when you need to, and the whole frame feels super-solid beneath you. Take a hard landing, and you don’t get that feeling of the bike squirming or shuddering from the impact. The Fuel seems to avoid that harsh feeling that plagues many carbon bikes with a solid chassis; the suspension is ultra supple, perhaps that is part of the puzzle?

Ultra-sensitive.

The FOX suspension is a real standout, the FOX 34 fork in our opinion is the best around, ultra-predictable and supportive. And out the back Trek’s proprietary Thru-Shaft shock with their twist on damping, dubbed: Re:Aktiv few remedies are floatingAktiv has an edge over the competition want sensitivity and it really does feel like the bike floats through choppy sections of trail nicely. The top-end fork and shock from FOX come with a wide range of adjustability, dial in the compression adjustments and you’ll find the bike feeling ultra-firm under your pedalling motions for the climbs and flatter trails, yet still able to react to bumps as they occur.

The Trek suspension bikes tend to feel very smooth and supple, like a Norco or Specialized, where the use of the fork and shock adjustments is key to bringing efficiency to a bike with such supple suspension.

Derby has all sorts of surfaces, in one short section of trail, you can often encounter anything from hard pack to soft, dry to wet and everything in between. That calls for a tyre that’s tacky enough to stick to rock, yet open in the tread pattern to bite.

We dig the Bontrager tyres, the XR4 tyres in 2.4” size are pretty impressive. They feel quite speedy, yet very grippy, a hard balance to strike. There were times we wished for a bigger tyre up front when the turns got faster and looser, but never did we wish for a faster tyre on the more mellow trails.

Rattle’n brakes.

These Shimano XT four-piston brakes with the finned cooling pads rattle like a coin in the clothes drier. It’s a big distraction and makes the bike feel a little rough, a significant oversight from Shimano, a total flop.

There are a few remedies floating around the mechanic realm, aside from sticking foam inside the calliper to dampen the noise, the simplest remedy we’ve found is to remove the spring between the pads, stretch it out a little, and re-install. Repeat as necessary, you’re welcome.

All rosy, then?

Pretty much, yes! We built the bike, rode it around the local trails a few times to dial in the setup before flying to Derby. For the whole trip, it never missed a beat, no flats, any creaks, nothing going out of tune.

The dropper post lever felt hard to push, perhaps improving the cable routing somehow might reduce friction, and like we said a larger tyre with a squarer profile up front would be a handy idea.

The bars are 750mm, pretty standard for a trail bike, but a little wider would be or preference, at least you’d have the option of cutting down to the right width.

Tall sizing, watch out, test first.

Watch the sizing if you’ve got short legs, the 19.5” felt nice and roomy in the length, but the seat tube is quite high. For Mick who has short-ish legs, the result was a saddle height too tall with the dropper post down all the way. We had a similar issue with the Canyon Spectral, where upsizing for long reach had us running into the issue of a bike too tall for the correct saddle height.

Derby, Beechworth, Lysterfield and home again.

After the Derby trip the Fuel EX was Mick’s bike of choice for a trip to Melbourne and back for Christmas, stopping at Beechworth for a couple of rides in the MTB Park and summer laps of Lysterfield, Melbourne.

For more on the specs, frame geometry and other models available, head to the Trek page here: More Fuel EX!

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The 2020 Fuel EX 9.9 Is a World-Class Trail Bike

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

The Takeaway : Trek’s 2020 Fuel EX has more travel, is stiffer, and built with bigger parts. It’s a bit heavier and more capable in rowdy terrain, but still an excellent all-purpose trail bike

• Expanded range of sizes and colors, but no more women’s models.
• 140mm forks and 2.6-inch tires on all models
• Fox 36 forks on top-of-the-line models
• Lifetime frame warranty returns

Price: $2,100 to $7,500 Weight: 29.1 lb. (Fuel EX 9.9, size 17.5)

Trek’s Fuel EX was an excellent lightweight trail bike, with notes of XC race in its bouquet. For 2020 the EX effectively underwent a training montage worthy of an 80’s movie and emerged bigger and badder. It is up to 140mm travel in the front (still 130mm in the rear), longer, slacker, stiffer, and comes with bigger tires. The new EX is a trail bike with hints of enduro. Yep, it’s heavier: The top of the line model weighs about 29 pounds on our scale. But it also has a trap door and hidden storage in the downtube.

The 9.9 reviewed here, and the $5,500 9.8, have Trek’s premier shock technologies and hearty Fox 36 forks—features lower cost EX models don’t get, which is a shame, because the 9.9 is a beautifully balanced and capable trail bike. The rear suspension is superb, offering a blend of support, sensitivity, and control that might be unmatched. The suspension handles bumps like it has more travel, but pedals like it has less.

The Fox 36 with GRIP 2 damper is very stiff, which helps keep this bike on the line you want to ride—the 2020 EX’s improved rear end stiffness helps too—and the quality of the travel is lively yet controlled. Yes, I’m gushing, but this suspension deserves it. It’s too bad Trek didn’t see fit to fit this bike with a decent dropper though. The stock Bontrager post is sticky and sluggish.

The longer and slacker geometry provides a more centered feel when you’re working the trail with the saddle dropped. The bike’s steering is light, and the bike climbs technical singletrack very well—a nice suspension platform and crisp pedaling manners help. On downhills, it’s very sure-footed and even rides a little bigger than its travel and geometry might suggest.

There are a lot of great trail bikes you can buy right now. This EX makes a strong case that it’s one of the very best.

Hidden Storage

The new EX has a trap door that lets you store stuff in its downtube.

Easier Setup

A number rebound knob makes proper setup easier.

The Mino-Link flip chip adjusts head and seat angle 0.5 degrees.

High and Low

The GRIP2 damper offers 4-way external damping adjustment.

The 2020 Fuel EX 29er is more than just redesigned; it’s repositioned. Trek launched the new Top Fuel earlier this year, transforming it from an XC race bike to a longer-travel (115/120mm) and more trail-oriented bike. That narrowed—practically eliminated—the gap between it and the 2019 130/130mm Fuel EX. But the 2020 Fuel EX also bumps up in travel and gets a little burlier. It’s now a bigger trail bike tiptoeing toward the enduro category.

Rear travel remains 130mm, but on the front are 140mm forks, with higher-end carbon models using Fox’s 36. The frame is stiffer, and gets longer (10 to 20mm depending on size). Angles change too: the head tube is a degree slacker (66 in low, 66.5 in high), while the seat tube gets a degree steeper (75 in low, 75.5 in high). As you can tell, the frame still employs a geometry-changing flip-chip.

Frame: Carbon Wheel Size: 29 inch Travel: 130mm Shock: Fox Factory Float Reactiv ThruShaft Fork: Fox Factory Float 36 Grip 2, 140mm Drivetrain: 1x12 Crankset: SRAM X01 Eagle Rear Derailleur: SRAM X01 Eagle Dub Cassette: SRAM XG-1275 Eagle, 10-50 Brakes: Shimano XT 4-piston hydraulic disc, 200mm (f), 180mm (r) rotors Seatpost: Bontrager Drop Line Elite Rims: Bontrager Line Carbon 30, 30mm internal width, tubeless ready Tires: Bontrager XR4 2.6-inch

There’s also a new trap door in the downtube—carbon models only—that provides that sweet, sweet storage in the downtube. An organizer roll—included—has pockets for a tube, Co2 cartridge, inflator head, and tire lever and keeps it all from rattling around. A plastic side-load bottle cage is included with the bike. We’ve also heard rumors that a tool that fits in the headtube will arrive later this year.

The switch to longer and slacker frame geometry brings with it shorter offset forks. This isn’t shocking—almost every new mountain bike that rolls out with uses a shorter offset fork. But for Trek, it’s a more significant change because it means rolling back from a feature it heavily promoted for many years. Its Genesis/G2 29er geometry is based around longer (51mm) offset forks. But that geometry has its roots in the beginnings of the 29er movement, when brands were trying to make 29ers handle like 26-inch-wheeled bikes (that was a thing), and also the days of shorter and steeper geometry.

But that era is over, and Trek is moving on, “Modern geometry and its longer reach and slacker headtubes requires a smaller offset to put the front wheel in an appropriate spot under the rider,” said Travis Ott, Trek’s mountain bike brand manager .

Trek engineers in the past said that Full Floater let them achieve a better shock rate—for better suspension performance throughout the travel—than they could with a fixed lower mount.

But that was then. The new generation of shocks, Trek says, offer the performance that previously was only achievable by using Full Floater, making the floating shock mount redundant. As a secondary benefit, the fixed-lower shock mount also helps Trek improve frame stiffness.

Higher-end EX models get a custom Fox Float shock with a list of Trek-only features. There’s a mini-piggyback reservoir that dissipates more heat in demanding situations, a thru-shaft design to reduce friction , and Reaktiv regressive damping for a firm pedaling platform without compromising sensitivity.

There’s also a numbered rebound knob to make setup easier. Trek representatives told me that customers found rebound settings like “15 clicks in” or “seven clicks out” confusing, and as a result would ride improperly tuned suspension. Now, Trek’s setup information can provide an easily understandable setting like “6” that matches a number on the knob.

The 2020 Fuel EX fits up to 2.6-inch tires front and rear. And to ensure “all” 2.6 tires fit, the EX’s forks get a custom spacer that slightly increases its axle-to-crown length compared to a stock 140mm fork and provides more crown clearance.

2020 Fuel EX frames come in aluminum or carbon. And all carbon frames are all carbon—no more carbon front ends with aluminum rear ends on mid-tier models. All frames have a lifetime warranty. Carryover features include Trek’s Knock Block headset, which prevents the bars from swinging around and damaging the top tube, and anti-rattle hose and housing with internal routing.

Gender, Sizing, and Wheel Size

The 2019 Fuel EX came in three women’s models and six unisex models. The 2020 EX line consists of six models with no women’s models. Instead, all 2020 EX models are available in a greater frame-size range and two colors. This, Trek argues, gives all riders more options to choose. None of the 2020 models get women’s saddles. Potential buyers will need to negotiate with a Trek dealer if an EX’s stock saddle doesn’t work for their anatomy.

The 2020 Fuel EX comes in eight sizes—extra small through double extra-large. The extra-small bike has 27.5 wheels, but the next size up comes with either size 27.5- or 29-inch wheels. All other sizes get 29-inch wheels only.

The Fuel EX Family

The new EX comes in six “mainline” models priced from $2,100 to $7,500. The EX is also customizable through Trek’s Project One program.

The three least-expensive models—$2,100, $2,900, $3,500—use an aluminum frame, and the three most expensive models—$4,100, $5,500, $7,500—use the full-carbon frame. Frame only is offered for both materials: $2,000 for aluminum and $3,300 for carbon.

All models use 140mm forks, however only the two most expensive bikes—the 9.8 and 9.9—get a Fox 36 fork. All other models use a Fox 34, RockShox 35, or RockShox Recon. On the other end, the least-expensive model uses a RockShox shock, but all other models use a Fox Float. You need to step up to the $3,500 EX 8 before you get the Reaktiv regressive damper in the shock, and it’s not until you hit the $5,500 EX 9.8 that you access the thru-shaft damper design.

So yeah, you don’t get *all* the good stuff—carbon frame with internal storage, 36 fork, thru-shaft shock, Reaktiv damping—until you spend $5,500.

All but the cheapest model come with 1x12 drivetrain and tubeless-ready rims. All models come with Bontrager 2.6” wide tires, dropper post, lock-on grips, and hydraulic disc brakes.

Ride Impressions

Not surprisingly, Trek sent me the top-of-the-line 2020 Fuel EX 9.9 X01 ($7,500). This model and the 9.8 have all the new features and all of Trek’s premier technologies.

But most EX models come with much different forks and shocks that will significantly affect how the EX performs— a bike with a 36 on the front rides much differently than a bike with a 34 on the nose, even if everything else is the same. So I’m only comfortable extending my impressions to two of the six 2020 EX models. I hope to ride one of the less expensive aluminum models to see how it rides and offer those impressions in a stand-alone review.

I hope they can come close to the performance of this bike because this 2020 EX 9.9 is excellent. It’s not the same bike it was before: the new EX is a little slower on the climbs than the old one, and a bit heavier, but a lot better everywhere else. It’s still a capable and versatile bike, but its window has shifted from marathon racing and trail bike, to trail and almost-enduro 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 of when you’re playing.

The Fox 36’s GRIP2 damper continues to set the bar for performance. Once you get its settings right—and it may take some fiddlin’ with the four clickers to get there—no other fork matches its combination of traction, control, stiffness, and weight. Its performance pulls this bike’s capabilities to a new level, especially in demanding terrain.

The new geometry is well balanced: You can push this bike hard in pretty demanding terrain, and it still climbs tight and technical trails well, and without fighting the front wheel (too much). The EX’s seat tube angle isn’t crazy-steep for a modern mountain bike, but it doesn’t need to be: the Trek’s Reaktiv damper’s platform holds the bike up in its travel better than similar bikes, preventing the rider from being pushed into the back seat because of increased shock sag from weight transfer. So even though the seat tube is “only” 75/75.5, it rides a bit steeper.

The platform also assists the EX’s pedaling efficiency. When I think of a nearly 30-pound trail bike with 2.6 tires, I don’t think quick and crisp. But this EX feels firm when you’re on the pedals and climbs lighter than a 29-pound trail bike should.

And it’s about here where I need to address my one complaint about this bike: The Bontrager dropper post. If this was a $2,000 bike, I might—might—be able to excuse its sluggishness and stickiness. But on a $7,500 bike, its performance is shameful—it performs exactly like a product that was chosen to save a few bucks. Excellent options like the BikeYoke Revive, Fox Transfer, and RockShox Reverb (the latest one), exist: This bike’s performance and high-end price deserve one.

I’m a fan of the longer reach. I’m 5’8,” and in the previous generation EX I sized up to an 18.5 because the 17.5 felt short and squirrely. But the reach of the new generation in 17.5 is within a few millimeters of the 18.5 from the previous generation. In the saddle the cockpit does feel a touch short because of the steeper seat angle (I slammed the saddle back because the rear suspension rides high making the seat angle feel even steeper), but, saddle dropped, I felt perfectly centered in the bike and not hanging over the front wheel.

It’s a great time to be a mountain biker because there are so many great trail bikes you can buy. The Fuel EX 9.9 and 9.8 are pricey bikes but have a collection of performance and features that few other bikes can match right now.

Three Awesome Knee Pads for the Trail

Light and Thin

G-Form Pro-X Barely noticeable sleeve with light pads and a mesh back panel. $60 | Competitive Cyclist

Dirt-Rash Defense

Dakine Slayer Thick padding in front with mesh behind the knees to keep you cool. $65 | Competitive Cyclist

A Padded Knee Warmer

Fox Launch Enduro Abrasion-resistant, soft, breathable, and easy to pedal in. $60 | Competitive Cyclist

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

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Trek Fuel EX 9.9 2019

About the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 2019

The Trek Fuel EX 9.9 2019 is a Full suspension Trail Mountain Bike with a carbon frame. Equipped with a SRAM X01 Eagle drivetrain of 12 gears (1x12). Its features include internal routing, dropper seatpost, and boost 110 . The bike weighs approximately 12,19 kg.

Internal routing

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2019 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 - Project One

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2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29

A 29″ aluminum frame full suspension trail bike with high-end components. Compare the full range

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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 7 29

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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

Read Review

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.

Nov 2019 · Jeremy Benson

The Fuel EX 8 is an impressively capable, versatile, and well-rounded trail bike that is ready for anything you are. Trek redesigned the Fuel EX models for...

Relatively affordable

Good component spec for the price

Great small bump compliance

Versatile/well-rounded

Frame sizing feels a little small

Can be overwhelmed in super aggressive terrain

Oct 2019 · McCoy

One seriously light and capable bike

Aug 2019 · Mike Levy

Trek's trail bike gets an all-new frame with tweaked suspension and fresh geometry, but where does sit compared to the competition?

Forgiving, deep feeling suspension

It's a wizard on technical climbs

New geometry increases capabilities

It might be too forgiving for some riders

You'll be using the pedal assist lever often

Trek could have gone further with the geometry

Apr 2019 · Rob Mitchell

We've been testing two 2019 130mm travel 29er trail bikes; the GT Sensor Expert and the Trek Fuel EX 9.7. Here we review the Trek Fuel EX.

Oct 2018 · Joseph Delves

A great full-sus all-rounder with an innovative frame

Jun 2018 · Nic “U-Turn” Hall

Without a doubt one of our favorite bikes in the budget bike roundup. The Trek Fuel EX 9.7 blends a refined look with affordable performance to offer you a killer mountain bike at a great value.

Last updated October 1 Not listed for 1,649 days

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First refuelling for Russia’s Akademik Lomonosov floating NPP

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The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactor units. In such reactors, nuclear fuel is not replaced in the same way as in standard NPPs – partial replacement of fuel once every 12-18 months. Instead, once every few years the entire reactor core is replaced with and a full load of fresh fuel.

The KLT-40S reactor cores have a number of advantages compared with standard NPPs. For the first time, a cassette core was used, which made it possible to increase the fuel cycle to 3-3.5 years before refuelling, and also reduce by one and a half times the fuel component in the cost of the electricity produced. The operating experience of the FNPP provided the basis for the design of the new series of nuclear icebreaker reactors (series 22220). Currently, three such icebreakers have been launched.

The Akademik Lomonosov was connected to the power grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020.

Electricity generation from the FNPP at the end of 2023 amounted to 194 GWh. The population of Pevek is just over 4,000 people. However, the plant can potentially provide electricity to a city with a population of up to 100,000. The FNPP solved two problems. Firstly, it replaced the retiring capacities of the Bilibino Nuclear Power Plant, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya Thermal Power Plant, which is more than 70 years old. It also supplies power to the main mining enterprises located in western Chukotka. In September, a 490 km 110 kilovolt power transmission line was put into operation connecting Pevek and Bilibino.

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