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Today’s DealsFuel EX 9.8 26
A 26″ carbon frame full suspension trail bike with high-end components.
| Frame | Carbon |
|---|---|
| Suspension | Full, 130 / 130mm |
| Wheels | 26″ Aluminum |
| Drivetrain | 2 × 10 |
| Groupset | XT |
| Brakes | Shimano XT Hydraulic Disc |
| Seatpost | Dropper |
5'0" – 5'7"
5'5" – 5'11"
5'9" – 6'3"
5'9" – 6'3"
6'1" – 6'6"
🐐 Estimated
None yet.
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Summary
The Trek Fuel trail bike family is consistently praised for its nimble handling, efficient suspension, and versatile performance across various terrains. Reviews highlight the RE:aktiv shock technology for its plush ride quality and excellent traction, making it a standout feature. The bikes are described as playful, precise, and capable of both technical climbs and spirited descents, with a well-sorted component spec that enhances the riding experience.
Nimble and playful handling
Efficient and plush RE:aktiv suspension
Versatile performance for climbing and descending
Well-sorted component spec
Excellent traction and control
Some models have harsh fork performance
Tire choice may not suit all conditions
Occasional component compatibility issues
Weight is middling in some builds
The Fuel EX can be navigated with precision and transfers line changes directly and willingly.
Forget the wheel size, the shock technology is the interesting thing here.
Spry is the first word that jumps to mind when I try to describe the Fuel EX 29.
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Jul 2015 · Andrew Richardson
Pitting a group of XC bikes and pushing them when riding enduro was a pretty mean task, but a fun one at that! See how the Trek Fuel EX 27.5 fared here!

Jun 2015 · Editors of Bicycling
This lightweight but trail-capable 29er mountain bike is infused with a rock-and-roll spirit

Nov 2014 · Francis Cebedo
The Trek Fuel EX 7 is a contender with its very capable Fuel lineage and reasonable $2,629 price. - Mtbr.com

Sep 2014 · Danny Milner
A 27.5in Fuel EX joins the existing 29er, but the real story is a leap forward in suspension damping
The RE:aktiv rear shock combined with DRCV is a great combo — plush in descend mode while firm and supportive in climb, with an excellent mix of both in trail mode.
Long stems on the larger sizes seem at odds with the trail-orientated set-up.

Jul 2014 · Josh Patterson
A worthy contender, with dialled angles, dependable kit and a new damper that performs without much fuss


Mar 2014
The Fuel EX’s prowess on steep and fast lines belies its short travel suspension and XC geometry…
| Frame | OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame & seatstay, alloy chainstay, Carbon Armor, ABP Convert, Full Floater, E2 tapered head tube, BB95, internal derailleur cable & dropper post routing, ISCG 05 mount, magnesium EVO Link, 130mm travel BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded |
|---|---|
| Bottom Bracket | BSA, 73mm, threaded |
| Headset | Cane Creek IS-3, E2, sealed cartridge bearing |
| Stem | Bontrager Race X Lite, 31.8mm, 7 degree |
| Handlebar | Bontrager Race X Lite Carbon Low Riser, 31.8mm, 15mm rise |
| Saddle | Bontrager Evoke 3, titanium rails |
| Seatpost | RockShox Reverb Stealth, 31.6mm, zero offset Type: Dropper |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Deore XT Shadow Plus |
|---|---|
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Deore XT, high direct mount |
| Crank | Shimano Deore XT, 38/24 |
| Shifters | Shimano Deore XT, 10 speed |
| Cassette | Shimano Deore XT 11-36, 10 speed |
| Brakes | Shimano Deore XT hydraulic disc Type: Shimano XT Hydraulic Disc |
| Rims | Bontrager Rhythm Comp Tubeless Ready w/Stacked Lacing, 15mm front hub; 142x12 rear hub |
|---|---|
| Tires | Bontrager XR3 Expert, aramid bead, 26x2.20" |
First added June 29
Last updated June 29
Not listed for 3,265 days