trek x caliber 8 2021 specs

Trek X-Caliber 8 hardtail review

• February 14, 2023

There are plenty of plus-points to the Trek X-Caliber 8 hardtail mountain bike, like reliable components and a sure-footed feel

Product Overview

Overall rating:, trek x-caliber 8 2022.

• Tubeless-ready wheels and tyres
• Heaviest bike on test

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:.

The Trek X-Caliber 8 is a sure-footed 29er hardtail mountain bike, with plenty of reliable elements that boost its score to impressive levels, but a few missteps that hold it back from quite making it as one of the best hardtail mountain bikes we’ve tested. There’s a whole lot to like though.

Twenty nine inch wheels have long been an integral part of Trek’s mountain bikes, especially the hardtails. And where initially there was uncertainty and hesitation in the industry, Trek pushed on with this larger wheel size and the persistence paid off: with 29in wheels now accepted globally and across all mountain bike categories, not just for the cross country crowd.

Trek’s early 29in wheel bikes were XC hardtails and since then, the X-Caliber has shifted upmarket and now sit between the entry-level Marlin and the carbon Pro-Caliber. All three platforms run 100mm travel forks.

We’ve pulled in the X-Caliber 8 for this review, which is just shy of the Scott Scale 965 in price and shares many of the same components. With all four bikes on test running Shimano brakes and 1×12 transmissions, we were keen to take this consistency a step further and chose models with regular seatposts, rather than droppers. Primarily for comparing the weight of the bikes, but riding dynamics and overall value played a part too as we felt it really levelled the playing field, and maintained the XC hardtail design ethos.

With a steeply sloping top tube and a super-low standover height the X-Caliber is a very striking bike. It’s a silhouette that’s mirrored through all the brand’s hardtails – with the notable exception of the carbon Pro-Caliber – as is the wide size range that Trek is well known for offering. Seven frame sizes are available (with the XS and S rolling on 27.5in wheels to keep proportions in check) with a useful M/L option that’s a great problem solver for riders stuck between the popular M and L options. So hats off to Trek for this level of commitment to getting a good fitting bike.

When it comes to new frame standards, Trek has always been an early adopter, so it’s no surprise to see a tapered head tube and Boost hub spacing on the X-Caliber frame. But it’s Boost with a twist… here, Trek using 141mm rear dropout spacing with a traditional Q/R hub, rather than a 148mm bolt-thru design.

It’s not a deal breaker though, as the fixed rear triangle of a hardtail doesn’t need stiffening up like a full suspension design, and a quick online search reveals plenty of wheel upgrade options from the likes of Hunt, Hope and Bontrager for the 141 standard.

A modern touch that hasn’t been executed as well as on other bikes in test, is the internal frame routing for the cable and rear brake hose – they’re not clamped where they enter the down tube and rattle noisily on rough terrain, just like on the Trek Roscoe in our Hardtail of the Year test.

Trek has equipped the X-Caliber 8 with a RockShox fork and it’s listed as a Judy SL, so we expected to see an upgrade or two. However, all the tech is identical to the regular Judy forks seen on the Cube and Scott – a tapered aluminium steerer, steel upper legs, a Solo Air spring and the brand’s basic TurnKey damper.

The Trek is the only bike in test that doesn’t have a remote lockout lever though, just a simple dial on the top of the fork leg, with an on/off function and no graded adjustment between those points. At least it’s one less cable to maintain and gives more handlebar space for a dropper post remote lever.

And while the X-Caliber frame does not use a bolt-thru rear axle, the 100mm travel Judy fork does have the 15x110mm Boost hub standard – although the website lists the lighter tooled axle as standard, our test bike had the same QR lever operated version as the Scott Scale.

Shimano was slow to filter its 1×12 transmissions down to the lower price points, but it’s there now and proving to be a very popular choice, all four bikes in this test using Shimano drivetrains. The X-Caliber’s specification lists a Shimano chainset, but our bike shipped with a model from FSA, and it’s the only deviation from a complete Shimano drivetrain.

Trek has also gone with a smaller 30t chainring and combined with the Deore 10-51t cassette you get a super-low gear, which is useful on the climbs because at 13.53kg (29.82lb) the Trek is the heaviest bike in test.

Another wise move is the genuine Shimano chain which performs faultlessly in wet filthy conditions and plays well with the steel FSA chainring. The benchmark XT rear mech is good to see, as is the rubber chainstay protector, which is a detail the other three brands seemed to have overlooked.

Performance

The dropped top tube, wider 750mm bar, long wheelbase and slackish 68º head angle (the slackest of the four bikes) give the X-Caliber the look and feel of a trail bike. However, the Trek’s geometry and attitude is not in the same league as the most progressive 100mm trail hardtails such as Kona’s test-winning Mahuna .

Even on this size XL, the frame’s front triangle is very compact, especially when compared to the Giant XTC, but it still sports two sets of bottle cage mounts – essential on an XC bike. In fact, Trek has added plenty of mounts to the X-Caliber, with fittings for a rack and kickstand making it a very capable all-terrain bike.

With one of the lightest wheelsets on test, we expected some zip and liveliness from the X-Caliber but it lacked the immediate urgency of the Scott and Giant and on longer non-stop cross country blasts, its weight was noticeable, certainly towards the end of the ride.

You can’t knock the Trek’s sure-footed nature though – the lengthy wheelbase (for an XC hardtail) and wide bar aid stability, and it was only the Judy fork’s lack of refinement that held us back from diving into more challenging terrain. A slightly shorter stem would no doubt help here too.

Although the compact front end still has a tall 525mm seat tube, the seat stays are dropped, giving a tighter rear triangle. This certainly gives the X-Caliber a chuckable hardtail vibe, but the ride quality was a touch less compliant than the other bikes here.

With that in mind, there’s plenty of frame and fork clearance for higher volume tyres to help smooth the ride further, and Trek helpfully supplies the X-Caliber 8 with rim strips, valves and sealant so you can go tubeless straight from the box and reap the benefits immediately.

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With a sure-footed ride, reliable Shimano components and a sorted tubeless wheelset, it feels like there’s a trail bike hiding under the X-Caliber’s glossy frame finish just waiting to get out, but being held back by the fork and lack of a dropper post. Stepping up a model to the X-Caliber 9 would be our recommendation then, as it gets a dropper post and a more capable and refined fork. Ultimately, the Trek X-Caliber 8’s weight is noticeable and even with the same control tyres fitted to all of the test bikes, the Trek lacks the race-bike urgency of the Scott and Giant.

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Trek Xcaliber 8 Review

February 9, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The X-Caliber 8 uses the latest in materials and components for a quality product.
• It has unique features like internal cables and built-in rack mounts.
• Everything on this bike is built for speed, power, simple controls, and confident handling.
• Climbing and descending is a blast with upright seating and highly responsive shifting.

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

‍ It’s tough to find a mountain bike that brings speed and maneuverability to singletrack trails, that’s reliable while still providing the right thrills.

The Trek X-Caliber 8 delivers on all counts, with high-quality materials and components fashioned into an excellent choice for your mountain bike needs. It handles ascent and descent like a dream, and is easily upgradable for those who want to tweak their performance even higher.

Out of all the bikes we’ve reviewed, this one is a standout far ahead of the pack. We invite you to explore the many benefits to selecting this bike.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Where to Buy the Trek X-Caliber 8

The Trek X-Caliber 8 costs $1,699, and can only be purchased through the Trek website .

A Brief History of Trek

Trek Bicycles originally started as a subsidiary of an appliance company. In the early 1980s, they expanded and built their own factory, targeting the high-end bicycle market as well as producing mountain bikes. Advances in technology over time meant that they moved on from their roots of hand-built steel frame bikes into aluminum and carbon fiber.

One notable claim to fame for Trek was their partnership with American champion Lance Armstrong. German rider Jens Voigt also set the first UCI unified hour record on a Trek bike, after the organizational rules were consolidated in 2014.

Trek X-Caliber 8 Review

Trek x-caliber 8 specs and geometry.

There’s a lot to love about the X-Caliber 8. Its high-end finishes, sturdy materials, and great attention to care in manufacturing have produced a quality bike that will last for years on the roughest terrain.

As with many mid-grade and high-end mountain bikes, the X-Caliber 8 features an aluminum frame. This means that the bike will be lighter than others made of steel, while still retaining its structural integrity. This gives it a distinct competitive edge on both fast and rough tracks.

Instead of having separate frame setups for men and women, this bike has a unisex frame that suits both riders. This can create simplicity for first-time buyers, making it an appealing option.

The fork suspension has an impressive 100 millimeters of travel. The standard component on other bikes of this class only allow for 80 millimeters of travel, but the X-Caliber 8 boasts higher-grade parts to get you the most out of your bike. The fork can also be upgraded for a maximum of 120 millimeters of travel, if you feel that you’re going to need that extra oomph to get you where you want to go.

The frame is also built for maximum handling. The chainstays in the rear are shortened a bit to give you the most control possible. In additional to the aluminum frame, every other component on this bike is designed to give you quick response times and get you up to speed quickly.

As with other models in the Trek line, there are multiple sizes to allow for riders of all sizes to find the bike that fits best for them. There are six sizes - from XS to XXL - and you can select the one that’s right for you based on your height and leg length. The website is helpful in showing you the right bike for your size.

What’s more, the multiple sizes also come with corresponding tire sizes. Smaller models in the X-Caliber 8 line have 27.5 inch tires, while the larger ones for 29 inch tires. This helpful consideration means that your bike will be fully customized to your unique needs.

One other feature worth mentioning is the built-in rack mounts. This is another way that Trek has thought ahead on behalf of riders: having the rack mounts built into the bike, rather than forcing riders to buy additional accessories, means that loading and unloading the bike will be quicker and easier, leaving more time for the trail.

Trek X-Caliber 8 Build Quality

We’ve already mentioned the aluminum frame, but Trek has developed an “Alpha Gold” alloy for this bike, making it even stronger than traditional aluminum. This alloy coupled with tapered frame components shows a high attention to detail in maximizing both speed and handling on this bike.

The X-Caliber 8 has a single shifter with twelve speeds. This simplified approach means that you’ll be in total control of your speed and uphill and downhill climbs.

The lightweight frame is also ideal for steeper climbs. More often than not, it is the weight of the bike that can slow even experienced riders on an uphill track, due to having to push a heavier machine upward. The lighter frame solves that problem, making it a plus for experienced riders and an added bonus for newer ones.

The X-Caliber 8 is a hardtail bike, which can mean sacrificing speed in some cases. However, the suspension and lighter weight keep it a higher-speed option, making this perfect for racing down the trail with your friends.

It is also compatible with Trek’s Blendr mounting system. If you plan to take any longer trips that require you to pack extra gear, you can mount it directly to the frame without extra components. This makes the X-Caliber 8 very user-friendly for bikepacking or longer trail rides where you want to have a bit more kit handy.

One other great option with the suspension is the lockout mode. This means that your fork will remain inactive, preventing unwanted bouncing at speed. This is yet another way you won’t have to sacrifice speed on longer stretches of even trail. And when you need it, you can reactivate the suspension to provide that needed cushion on rougher stretches.

One final feature worth pointing out is the internal cable routing. There’s no need to fear a stray branch or rock cutting your cables, since everything is contained inside the frame. This is a premium feature that riders of all skill levels will value.

Trek X-Caliber 8 Handling

We’ve already talked at length about the speed the X-Caliber 8 brings to the party, and we’ll let the results speak for themselves. It has the pedigree of a record holder and world champion, and everything about it was built to max out speed.

Just because it’s fast, however, doesn’t mean that you’re losing out on handling. The hardtail rear end and tapered front end gives you optimized handling throughout the bike. Front and rear handling points are responsive when called upon, and steady when they need to be.

The wider 2.35 inch tires can handle any trail you throw them at, although some riders have complained about sand and mud bogging the bike down. This is one of the rare downsides to this bike, but tires are often one of the first upgrades riders will make to get the most out of their next trail, so no worries if that’s something you need to swap out.

As with many other higher-end bikes, the X-Caliber 8 features hydraulic brakes. This is a hallmark of reliability and quality, giving you confident braking when it’s needed most.

Trek X-Caliber 8 Ride Quality and Performance

The X-Caliber 8 has a ride that feels great over difficult tracks and smooth roads. It features an upright riding position, which is more comfortable on ascents and is still pleasant even after hours in the saddle.

Everything about this bike is tuned to deliver speed for long periods of time. Especially if you’re on a smoother track or road, you can go for hours without tiring too much too quickly, helping you truly get the most out of every ride every time.

The shifter also contributes to this smooth ride. The single gear model with 12 speeds means that you’re not shifting gears too quickly, or having to finesse a complicated system.

Climbing and Descending

Climbing and descending are where the X-Caliber 8 truly shines. We’ve covered some of these features already, but they’re worth repeating.

The locking suspension means that the bike won’t bounce on uphill stretches. This means the ride will be smoother and easier; and coupled with the upright seat, you can climb with confidence and ease.

You can also descend from the upright position, which gives you added control and lets you better see what’s up ahead.

Trek X-Caliber 8 Pros and Cons

Trek x-caliber 8 pros.

The materials on the Trek X-Caliber 8 are built to last, but also built to be light. The aluminum alloy frame can handle the worst punishment you can find on the track, while still being light enough to handle with ease.

The upright seating position and locked suspension both contribute to higher speed capacity with this bike. This is further supported by friendly geometry and a simplified shifting structure. They also create a more comfortable ride, meaning you can go farther and ride longer without fatiguing too quickly.

The internal cable routing is another unique build feature that keeps critical components safe on the trail. And the built-in rack mounts make storage and transport a breeze.

• High-quality materials and components
• Aluminum alloy frame
• High speed capacity
• Upright seating position, even on uphill and downhill grades
• Internal cable routing
• Built-in rack mounts

Trek X-Caliber 8 Cons

There are very few negatives about the X-Caliber 8. The only one worth mentioning is the tires, which may get bogged down in muddier or looser tracks.

• Tires may need to be swapped out for wider options.

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

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

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Trek X-Caliber 8 2021

About the Trek X-Caliber 8 2021

The Trek X-Caliber 8 2021 is a Hardtail Cross Country Mountain Bike with a alloy frame. Equipped with a SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain of 12 gears (1x12). Its features include internal routing, boost 110 , and e-thru axle. The bike weighs approximately 13,8 kg.

Internal routing

E-thru axle, hydraulic disc brakes, tapered head tube, tubeless ready, specifications, subscribe to our newsletter.

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Trek X-Caliber 8 review

Trail confidence without breaking the bank

David Rome / Immediate Media

In 2014, Trek's X-Caliber (Skye for women) was re-born as a range of entry-level 29er hardtails. Just a year on, it's undergoing further changes, thanks to what Trek calls ‘Smart Wheel Sizes’ – that means smaller 650b hoops for the two smallest frame sizes, and 29in ones for every other size.

Given our near perfect experience with last year’s X-Caliber 7 , the sight of a RockShox branded fork on the new immediately had us smiling – although a corresponding price rise also has to be factored in. So is the new model worth the extra outlay?

Ride and handling: pro-level trail character with superb balance

The handling qualities of the last year’s X-Caliber 7 were a major factor in the praise we showered on it. Borrowing the geometry from Trek’s popular and World Cup-proven Superfly range, the 29in wheeled 7 rides like a performance bike, rather than the entry-level model that it is.

While smaller frame sizes will undoubtedly experience some difference in handling owing to their 650b wheels, our 17.5in-framed test bike immediately – and reassuringly – felt similar to the X-Caliber 7.

Out on the trail, the ride from the X-caliber's geometry shines

The spacious top tube, short stem combination means your weight sits evenly between the wheels, making for balanced handling. Factor in the relatively short rear end and you've got a comfortable riding position with easy manoeuvrability when the terrain requires. Meanwhile the wide, well-swept Bontrager handlebar offers plenty of leverage for confident control of the bike.

The front derailleur cable is routed internally through the top tube for a clean look

Plenty of handlebar height adjustment is available

It’s worth noting that the X-Caliber's responsive handling and undeviating climbing ability is only fully unlocked once the stem is lowered from its stock position. The bike's short head tube and a large stack of headset spacers allow for plenty of handlebar height adjustment options.

Rolling freely and with authority, the 29er wheels and large volume rubber take charge on rock and root infested trails. Smaller rocks and ripples in the ground go past unnoticed, with the RockShox XC32 fork doing a decent job at absorbing bigger hits – though sharp square-edged bumps can overwhelm it.

Along with a crown-mounted lockout and coil spring preload, the XC32 fork offers rebound control – something that is missing from cheaper models.

The RockShox XC32 fork works well in most conditions, though some flex becomes evident when it's really pushed

Unlike pricier steeds, the X-Caliber sticks with a standard 1 1/8in steerer and quick release axle. But it's only when you really push it that flex is felt in the fork – for most trail conditions, and most riders, it’s a non-issue. (It’s certainly stiffer than the 2015 X-Caliber 7’s XC30 fork)

Trek has also done a respectable job in smoothing the X-Caliber’s ride quality. While little compliance is offered by the alloy frame or firm handlebar grips, large 2.2in tyres go a long way towards filtering trail buzz. Combine this with a generously padded saddle that sits atop a skinny 27.2mm seat post, and the ride is by no means harsh.

It's worth bearing in mind though that while the X-Caliber is capable and eager to go just about anywhere, it does so more slowly than a fancier machine will. Whether you're hauling in speed for a fast approaching corner, conquering the steepest hill in the area or pumping the bike into the air, you're regularly reminded of the weight compromises – especially where it's carried by the wheels – that must inevitably be made with entry-level bikes.

Frame and equipment: well rounded build that’s capable of real riding

As mentioned above, depending on your size the 2015 X-Caliber frame goes through significant changes, or none at all. In the case of our 29in sample it’s the latter, with one exception in the form of brighter paint.

The frame is a fairly no-nonsense build featuring wide tyre clearance, internal front derailleur cable routing, easily serviced threaded bottom bracket and cleanly guided full-length sealed cable housing. Showcasing the potential versatility of the X-Caliber for commuting or light touring, the frame features both fender and pannier rack mounts out the back.

A bit of additional weld at the rear brake mount is used to reinforce the frame. Although it isn't the prettiest...

The build quality is pretty great, however, our brake hoses arrived a little long and messy. Good bike mechanics will clean this up before it reaches your hands, but if not, don't accept giant unnecessary loops in the hoses.

A 2x10 gearing system isn't commonly seen at the X-Caliber 8's price. But is it a good thing?

Given that this is the model above the previously tested X-Caliber 7, it’s no surprise the components are better. Beyond the front fork, the drivetrain is the next most obvious point of upgrade, with this model featuring a SRAM 2X10 system, more commonly seen on higher-end bikes. With 10-speed at the back and just two chainrings on the front, the X-Caliber’s gearing has been optimised for off-road use.

As discussed in our mountain bike groupset buyer’s guide , SRAM is Shimano’s key competitor and a popular choice in mountain biking. The X5/X7 components are an approximate equivalent to Shimano Deore and once set up correctly offer crisp and reliable shifting. It's still not as fast as more expensive options, but it didn’t miss a beat while being tested.

Gearing wise, the small chain ring and largest cog on the cassette enable you to crawl up even the steepest of climbs without too much stress. On the reverse, the 36T big chaninring is well suited to fast off-road use, though it may prove under-gunned for those looking to put a skinnier tyre on and commute. For such usage, other brands that stick with a triple chainring setup may suit you best.

Quality components where it matters

Something we don’t often sing about on bikes at this price is tubeless tyres. A tubeless setup allows for lower tyre pressures without the risk of flatting, so providing a smoother ride quality and greater traction on the trail. Additional benefits include lower weight and reduced rolling resistance. While the X-Caliber isn’t set up tubeless, it does feature tubeless ready rims that proved nicely off-road worthy.

In order to ditch the tubes, you’ll still need to buy the appropriate rim strips, tubeless-ready tyres and sealant, but it’s the single biggest upgrade you can do to the bike (after decent pedals) and it’s not a huge expense either.

Although the supplied Bontrager tyres are durable and confident treads for many trail conditions, they carry plenty of weight. Upgrading to tubeless with a compatible tyre would see the bike drop half a kilogram (and probably more) in weight.

We're big fans of Shimano brakes – even the cheapest models

While SRAM takes care of the drivetrain, Shimano handles the braking duties. This is a common and popular choice, because Shimano's entry-level brakes set the benchmark with reliable function and solid performance. The basic model on the X-Caliber lacks the precise feel and bite of more expensive models, but newer riders will quickly gain complete confidence in the system.

So we’ve covered what you’re gaining over the cheaper X-Caliber 7 , but it's also worth considering what you get at the next pricepoint up.

In some countries (including the US and UK), the X-Caliber 9 is also available and provides an example of what to expect. It offers an air-sprung fork for greater suspension tuneability and substantial weight savings. Additionally, the drivetrain components see a further upgrade that should aid in long-term durability. Finally, the hubs move to a sealed bearing unit – effectively creating a lighter system that use replaceable cartridge bearings instead of the cup and cone loose ball-bearing system found on the X-Caliber 8 and below.

Common advice when buying a starter mountain bike is to spend as much as your budget allows. As we’ve seen in our testing of the X-Caliber 8, that advice rings true in the form of lower weight along with suspension, gearing and wheels that are better suited to the punishment meted out by off-road use. Whatever your budget, be sure to factor in the cost of pedals, as those included won’t let you see what this bike is capable of.

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Trek X-Caliber 8: Everything You Need To Know

At a Glance: Features of the Trek X-Caliber 8

• Aluminum frame
• RockShox 30 Silver 100mm suspension fork and hardtail suspension system
• Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes
• Shimano Deore front derailleur, Shimano Deore XT rear derailleur, and Shimano Deore 10-Speed shifters

Introduction

Are you going off-roading on rough trails or participating in cross country (XC) mountain biking?

There are many things you need to take care of when doing any of these activities. Before you get anything else done, however, you’ll have to start by choosing a reliable, high-quality bike.

Today, we’re going to check out what kind of companion the X-Caliber 8 from Trek Bikes is for your mountain biking trips.

Let’s get right into it and start with the complete guide on X-Caliber 8.

Our Guide to Trek X Caliber 8

Trek Biking Company has been making bikes since 1976. Across four decades, the company has built a reputation for crafting excellent, durable bikes that offer serious performance, regardless of your experience level.

The X-Caliber series from Trek Bikes takes this legacy forward with their XC mountain bikes. For the purposes of this review, we’ll be focusing on the X-Caliber 8 model only.

So, let’s get started with the features of Trek X-Caliber 8.

The X-Caliber series is a range of XC bikes all made of aluminum frames. These are lightweight bikes with a tapered head tube, and a rack and kickstand mount.

The internal cable routing helps to add to the neat appearance of these X-Caliber bikes.

X-Caliber 8 also features Boost 141 hub spacing that makes your frames stiffer and wheels stronger. It also gives you shorter chainstays, and more tire and chainring clearance. This allows you to ride on low-difficulty terrains with ease but isn’t suitable for particularly rough trails.

Like all XC mountain bikes, the X-Caliber also employs a lightweight geometry that gives you better pedaling efficiency.

The X-Caliber 8 is a hardtail bike, meaning that it does not have suspension in the back and the front suspension locks out. This makes biking on climbs and sprints easier.

The 1x SRAM drivetrain on this X-Caliber requires fewer gear adjustments which means a better biking experience for you with fewer chain drops. However, this configuration also offers fewer gear options.

If you’re looking for better flat-out speed, then a 2x or 3x drivetrain might be better for you.

The company has equipped the X-Caliber 8 with Shimano Deore front derailleur, Shimano Deore XT rear derailleur, and Shimano Deore 10-Speed shifters.

These speed shifters allow you to shift easily between riding positions with their 2-way release triggers.

The tire size will differ depending on the bike size you choose. Trek offers the following size options for its X-Caliber series:

• 29×2.4 inches for medium and large X-Caliber bikes
• 27.5×2.8 for small and extra small X-Caliber bikes

Versatility

Is the Trek X-Caliber 8 a versatile mountain bike?

The X-Caliber 8 is one of the most versatile bikes you’ll find on Trek’s list. The X-Caliber 8 allows you the freedom to go off-road or ride single-track marathons and races.

Can you take the X-Caliber 8 on long rides or touring? Absolutely!

The X-Caliber 8 is durable and will sustain you on long rides and touring as well. It is best suited for long trails with uphill and downhill riding.

Weight and Load Capacity

The medium-sized X-Caliber 8 weighs 28.77 pounds and its total load capacity is 300 pounds.

Braking System

Don’t forget about the braking systems!

This X-Caliber 8 mountain bike comes with the Shimano MT200 hydraulic disk brakes.

Hydraulic brakes are excellent for beginners because they do away with cables and also require less pressure. They are also lightweight so the bike’s overall weight is well adjusted.

But the Shimano MT200 brakes are the best for those looking to try MTB for the first time. These are quiet breaks that utilize one-way bleeding technology to prevent air from entering the hydraulic system.

What this means is your breaks and the hydraulic fluid in them will remain in optimum condition for years, without any need for regular bleeding and maintenance.

Want to add more flexibility to your seat’s height on those rocky terrains?

X-Caliber 8 is internal dropper compatible which allows you to upgrade your seat height limit whenever you want to.

At a rough price of $1,400, the X-Caliber is a cost-effective option among hardtail bikes which typically go up to $1,500.

Accessories

The bike features rack mounts that allow you to carry some accessories on those long trips you’ve been wanting to take.

Want to install accessories such as lights and computers on your bike?

Trek allows you to do that with its Blendr-compatible stem system.

Colors and Sizes Available

Trek makes its X-Caliber 8 in two different color options. One is a combination of lithium gray and trek black. While the other combines a radioactive red with trek black.

The X-Caliber 8 is available in a variety of size options from small and medium to large and double XL.

X-Caliber 8: Pros and Cons

• Great for beginners
• Lightweight
• Easy to maintain
• Easy to make high-end upgrades
• Cost-efficient
• Quality materials used
• Great bike for moderate to smooth trails
• Available in a variety of size options
• Not for technical trails
• Fewer gear options
• Not ideal for very rough trails
• Not the fastest MTB out there

In Conclusion: Is Trek X-Caliber 8 Worth It?

Trek makes quality products and the X-Caliber 8 is one of them. The bike is made of quality parts, has a good design, and has a good frame.

The X-Caliber 8 is a good bike for the new and experienced biker. There’s little to worry about and more to explore with the bike’s great features.

Its front suspension fork is good enough to take a few moderate bumps so you can take it for beginner to mid-level trails.

Overall, the Trek X-Caliber is a great choice among MTB products for beginners.

We hope our guide helped you understand the X-Caliber 8 better and made the purchasing choice a tad bit easier.

What features of MTB bicycles do you think your MTB must-have?

Think it over and write to us with your answers.

Happy off-roading!

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• Rider Notes

2020 Trek X-Caliber 8

A 27.5″ aluminum frame hardtail crosscountry bike with upper mid-range components. Compare the full range

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.

X-Caliber 8

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137cm – 155cm

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Do you have this bike? Help other riders make a decision about which size will work for them by sharing your own size and fit notes. Report your fit

Trek's budget-friendly hardtails have evolved on two distinct paths, an affordable XC steed and a fun trail machine. Born out of the same frame, find out how these two bikes compare. - Mtbr.com

Read Review

If you're looking for a rapid handling cross-country hardtail then the X-Caliber delivers in spades, but it's a bit of a handful when the trail turns downhill thanks to steep geometry and a dated cockpit. Buyer's guide to mountain bikes - get the best MTB for you The best mountain bikes for under £1,000 - the best budget buys ridden and rated Trek launch updated 2020 X-Caliber aluminium hardtail cross-country bike The X-Caliber range is Trek's entry to their proper cross-country hardtail offerings, designed to tackle proper off-road riding rather than being a multi-sport machine.

Last updated 21 August Not listed for 1,331 days

2023 Trek X-Caliber 8 Bike

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Specifications

Sizes and geometry.

trekbikes.com

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• Mountain Bikes
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• Trek X-Caliber
• 2023 Trek X-Caliber

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• X-Caliber 8

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Trek X-Caliber 8 Hardtail Mountain Bike 2021 in Lithium Grey

With Pre-Order , you can purchase the latest items added to our store in advance of them arriving with us.

Your Pre-Order is prioritised (at no additional charge); meaning that as soon as the product arrives with us, we can wrap it straight back up; ready for collection via Click & Collect or despatch to you — it often never even hits the stock room shelves!

With Pre-Launch , the date when we expect to receive the product ourselves is still a little too hazy to be confident in accepting Pre-Orders.

So, instead, you can submit your email address against the item you are interested in and we will email you as soon as stock arrives on the system.

Estimated Delivery & Collection Dates are given on Pre-Order and Pre-Launch products. They are for indication purposes only and can change at any time without notice.

The dates we provide are based on indications given by our suppliers. Whenever we get updated information from our suppliers we will endeavour to update the Estimated Delivery & Collection Dates provided on product pages.

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Season:2021

Code:331932021LithiumGRYBLK

Key Features & Benefits:

• Aluminium Frame: Lightweight & Durable
• SRAM 1x12 Drivetrain: Dependable, with a wide range of gears suitable for all terrain.
• Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Powerful stopping capacity to keep you in control.

Full Specification:

• Frame: Alpha Gold Aluminium, tapered head tube, internal derailleur and dropper post routing, rack and kickstand mount, Boost141, 5 mm QR
• Rear Shock (If Applicable): N/A
• Fork: RockShox Judy SL, Solo Air spring, TurnKey lockout, tapered steerer, 42 or 46 mm offset, 100x5 mm QR, 100 or 120 mm travel
• Number of Gears: 12
• Gear Shifters: SRAM SX Eagle, 12-speed
• Chainset: SRAM SX Eagle, GXP, Boost
• Chainrings: 30T Steel
• Rear Cassette: SRAM PG-1210 Eagle, 11-50, 12-speed
• Chain: SRAM SX Eagle, 12-speed
• Front Derailleur: N/A
• Rear Derailleur: SRAM SX Eagle
• Bottom Bracket: Truvativ Powerspline, 73 mm, threaded cartridge, 118 mm spindle
• Pedals: VP-536 nylon platform
• Rims: Bontrager Kovee, double-wall, Tubeless Ready, 28-hole front, 32 hole rear 23 mm width, Presta valve
• Front Hub: Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Hub: Formula DCL-141Q, sealed bearing, 6-bolt, Shimano 10 freehub, Boost141, 5 mm QR
• Front Tyre: Bontrager XR3 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 27.5x2.20" (XS,S) 29x2.20" (M, ML, L, XL, XXL)
• Rear Tyre: Bontrager XR3 Comp, wire bead, 30 tpi, 27.5x2.20" (XS,S) 29x2.20" (M, ML, L, XL, XXL)
• Brakes: Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc
• Handlebars: Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, 5 mm rise
• Handlebar Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
• Headset: Semi-integrated, loose ball bearing, 1-1/8" top, 1.5" bottom
• Stem: Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost: Bontrager alloy, 31.6 mm, 12 mm offset
• Accessories: N/A
• Weight: Not Available

Geometry for Trek X-Caliber 8 Hardtail Mountain Bike

All measurements in cm unless stated otherwise

Ask a question

• Question asked by Bill marsden on 23/04/2021 09:00:36 Q: Hi,Is 32t the largest front chainring i could use? Also would thisModel be able to take 32t oval chainring, 30t standard with this model is great for hills but i mainly require flat and use bicycle paths more than trails.Thanks A: SRAM do sell up to a 34T chainring for this crankset, and you would also be able to use a 32T oval chainring provided it is compatible with SRAM 12 speed.

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X-Caliber 8

$1529.99 msrp.

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