From race day to all day, you need a trail bike that's light and agile, yet commanding and capable. The Fuel EX is the do-it-all trail machine you can count on time and again.
Alpha Platinum Aluminum w/ABP Convert, Full Floater, E2 tapered head tube, internal front derailleur cable routing, magnesium EVO Link, replaceable derailleur hanger, 120mm travel
Strengths: Solid frame, Fox fork fork and shock. Climbs very well
Weaknesses: Heavy seatpost, front and rear hubs create a creeking sound. Brakes take awhile to set in and gives a bit of noise till they do.
Bottom Line:
Purchased a '11 model in for the 2012. Main difference is the DRCV which the '11 EX 7 model doesn't have. Not a big deal as I found the the RP2 suitable for the type of riding I do. Not too technical and no more than 3' drops. Propedal is hardly used, as the ABP with the full floater works well and peddle bob harldy noticed. I find the front forks compressing more so than the rear on hard peddle pounding. The gearing is smooth as it provides numerous gear selections from the 3x10 setup. The Elixir 3 works well with nice modulation. As noted in the "Weakness" report, they are a bit noisy before set in. Once they do, they the noise subsides and the rub is vurtually gone. Overall, the EX 7 performs very well. It's easy to gain speed and it inspires riding confidence.
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Submitted by
JP
a Weekend Warrior
from Epping, NH, USA
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2012
Strengths: This bike climbs like a champ, turns on a dime, has great control, it is very light and can take a serious beating.
Weaknesses: Being nit-picky here: Could use larger rotors, better rear derailer and more travel.
Bottom Line:
Please note that I am reviewing a 2009 that I bought in 2011. I love to ride the rough, tight New England trails and this bike delivers. After a full year of riding this bike, my proficiency/technicality has gone through the roof and that's why I believe this is a great bike for anyone else that wants to get serious about mountain biking. The bike has a great feel where I can pull up, wheelie drop, or huck-up anything on command. This bike is nimble enough to navigate through baby heads and strong enough to hit 5' drops. I am 5' 10" and a medium (17.5 in frame) fits me perfect. The suspension sucks up most of the impact, but on a flatter landing from a 4' drop the suspension bottoms out. I would suggest this bike to anyone that likes to attack the XC trails loaded with hills, hucks and rocks. I plan to ride this bike until it dies (or I kill myself on it; whichever comes first). 4 chilis for the overall because of the weaknesses listed above.
Favorite Trail: Terry's Trail in Harold Parker State Forest
Duration Product Used: 1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Similar Products Used: 2004 Gary Fisher Sugar 4
Bike Setup: Race Face bash guard (no need for a large sprocket), clipless pedals and Specialized Armadillo Eskar Elite 2.3 tires front and back.
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Submitted by
acm0137
a Weekend Warrior
from San Angelo, TX
Date Reviewed: February 8, 2012
Strengths: fairly light for being full suspension and having zero carbon on it
ease and range of suspension adjustment
dropped top tube makes your nuts feel safer
Weaknesses: stock tires
cable housing rubs frame and scuffs the finish
only has SLX rear derailer
Bottom Line:
Take with grain of salt because this is my first full suspension...
I ride mostly singletrack and wow this bike handles amazing. I have put around 150 miles on it and I am loving every bit of it. The fox fork soaks up everything and the rear suspension doesn't let my rear tire off the ground. I didn't even know a bike could have this much control through a rocky turn. The hydraulic brakes are a huge stepup from my previous cable driven discs and allow me tons of stopping power without losing contol of the bike. I don't do a whole lot of climbing here in Texas but the hills I've ran into were nothing compared to climbing them on my old Q620. I haven't really ridden the bike with the fork locked out or the rear on "propedal" so I am not sure how well those work. If you're thinking about getting this bike - do it. It has made me a 10 times better rider. Technical sections that I used to struggle with are like cake walks and now I'm doing sections that I wouldn't have even tried with my old hardtail. I was also skeptical about getting the white one because of it not being white for long but the paint seems like it will hold up well and it looks SWEET. I get compliments on it every ride.
I cant say anything for the stock tires except that they looked like they weren't worth a crap so the LBS sold me the tires I wanted when I bought the bike and gave me credit for the stock tires.
Bike Setup: stock except for tires - tubless small block eight on rear and tubeless nevegal on front
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Submitted by
JJ
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa, FL, US
Date Reviewed: September 27, 2011
Strengths: I have ridden the bike about 6 times and it feels comfortable and fits me very well. Suspension works well, brakes are great. Overall it is a very nimble bike, feels great going down hill and climbs much better than my former hard tail. I experience no peddle bob. Looks awesome!
Weaknesses: Not to excited about the front tire. I do not feel confident going into sandy turns, it wash's out. I am from Florida so sand is plentiful. Brake cables rub on the frame and scratch the paint. That is pretty annoying.
Bottom Line:
I recommend the 2011 Trek fuel EX 7 to anyone who will listen. This bike has made me faster and I am clearing sections of trail I never thought I would be able to do before. The ABP really does keep the rear tire on the trail I never have issues with the back tire bouncing around.
Bike Setup: stock, going to replace front tire soon
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Submitted by
NasDak_20
a Weekend Warrior
from Canton, GA
Date Reviewed: May 27, 2011
Strengths: This bike absolutely flies and TREK nailed the geometry and suspension on this bike. It gives you more confidence to tackle terrain and more technical trails than I have before. Bottom line strengths are geometry, suspension, and frame rigidity.
Weaknesses: Upon purchasing immediately replace the tires!! The Bontager XDX tires that come on this bike are good for the road and roll fast but they do not have any knobs on the outside edge to allow you to use the bikes full capability of tackling technical trails with off camber decents or shredding corners. If you attempt you may break your neck!!
Bottom Line:
Once you replace the tires on this bike and tune the suspension it is an animal!! TREK does a good job of providing you with tools and charts to roughly get your suspension tuned. However, they only get you in the ball park. Take the time to keep fine tuning the suspension. This will pay off and you will get to use the full capabilities of this full suspension bike. I cannot say enough about how impressed I am with this bike. The components that come on the bike can be upgraded. Do not allow this to deter you from purchasing it!! Besides thats the fun part of upgrading and customizing your rig!
PS - Consider getting WTB Wolverine tire I have run them for years on several of my other bikes and they are awesome!
Submitted by
jmacvt
a Cross Country Rider
from Norwich, VT, USA
Date Reviewed: March 21, 2011
Strengths: Agile suspension with very little bob or braking lock-up. Great frame and (mostly) solid component group for the money.
Weaknesses: Some weaker components but all upgradable over time. Mine had been ridden for a year by a bike tech and upgraded so I cannot comment on the standard complaints I read here about stock tires and seat.
Bottom Line:
Most importantly, do not even read pre-2008 reviews unless you are buying a pre-2008 bike. The suspension changes in the 2008 model were significant making this one of the best frames on the market for rugged XC riding and even some light AM. The EX7 gets you into the same world-class frame found in more expensive models while keeping the total package affordable.
I swapped bikes last summer on a ride with a friend of mine who is on a Santa Cruz Nomad which in my opinion is the one bike to have if you can afford it. He had not ridden Trek in a while and was very impressed with how favorably it compared to his Nomad.
Similar Products Used: Specialized FSR XC Pro, Santa Cruz Nomad
Bike Setup: Stock with some nice upgrades: SRAM X-9 Derailleur with grip shifts, Bontrager Race rims, Maxxis Ardent EXO tires, Bontrager Race Lite carbon handle bars, WTB Rocket V seat, 70 mm stem. NOTE: Stem makes a huge difference in handling from the 95 that comes stock. Tempted to go even shorter.
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Submitted by
TomWillDave
a Weekend Warrior
from Ayr, Ayrshire, Scotland
Date Reviewed: February 21, 2011
Strengths: Great handling, good small bum performance, Confidence inspiring geometry, strong brakes, slick transmission, weight, componentry, forks and conmfort of saddle - which always seems to be forgotten in modern bikes but if your doing an endurance ride can make all the difference!
Weaknesses: Tyres, hubs, comes almost completely disassembled so if you're building yourself you might want to think about going to you lbd instead
Bottom Line:
This bike is brilliant value for the level of componentry it has, it handles brilliantly on the trail (even with the factory xr3 tyres) and floats brilliantly over the rough stuff. For a Full-sus it still manages to hold on to some acceleration and climbing ability without tiring the rider. It wont win any medals for weight but weight is certainly not an issue either. Is very capable when it comes to big drops and small bumps. Brakes are perfectly powerful and capable of keeping the control on the fast decents. All in all a brialliant all round bike for trail use and could stand up to the big guys easily. Would recommend to anyone who loves trails but is looking for that extra edge and confidence on the decents.
Similar Products Used: Trek Fuel ex 5, Trek fuel ex 8, Merida one-twenty.. and where comparisons may be made - Trek Session 88, Trek 6000, Trek 3700, Carrera Fury
Bike Setup: All factory set up - Sram X7 transmission, avid elixir 3, shimano hubs, fox rp2, fox f-series RL, Bontrager tyres, bars, seatpost, saddle, stem and rims, FSA headset
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Submitted by
the4kbeast
a Weekend Warrior
from Milford, MA
Date Reviewed: January 10, 2011
Strengths: -> Awesome combo of 120mm (~4.7") travel & lightness (28.6 lbs)
-> Amazingly engineered rear suspension (have you seen trek's website? Hearing the background engineering and design that went into building the rear end sold me on this bike)
-> All Fox suspension running gear
-> Hydraulic brakes (even though just Juicy 3's)
-> I'd rather have 120mm of finely engineered fully-active travel than piece together an inferior bike and spend more
-> Finish on frame: Was initially worried about it getting rubbed off; I've put off putting 3M patch panels for months to stop the finish from getting ruined. I'm not a pre-madonna, but I like to take care of my stuff. Amazingly, it's held up really well to mud, grit, grime, and the occasional spill.
-> I love that all of the torque specs are put on the frame right next to the bolt, so if you pull something apart you don't need to dig for a manual or take a computer into the garage to double check specs from a pdf.
Weaknesses: -> 100mm stem (7 deg): This thing is set up to be a billy goat; great if you like goats, bad if you want more float. Just not my style, makes the front end feel nervous when riding hard not going uphill, particularly in corners.
-> OEM grips are thin, transmit lots of vibration through the bars on all day epic rides. I wear gloves, but am going to swap over to thicker ODIs because I like having something a little more substantial to hang on to. Minor thing, more of just a preference. OEM have lock on inner side and are high quality.
-> Everyone complains about the tires, and I'll say that they aren't the best. They give very low rolling resistance, so are great for the hour ride to Vietnam on paved streets and trails, but you just give up too much traction on the trail where it really counts. I'm not writing them off, however, until I try running them tubeless. I figure I can't part ways with them without giving them a fair shake. $20 in parts to convert them to tubeless isn't much. May be fine for dry hard pack for all of you luck west-coasters.
-> Was sad to see Trek change this from a 130mm travel bike in years past to a 120mm bike. Maybe it was for a good reason like price point, but I fear it's for little more than to help differentiate the Fuel from the Remedy.
-> Really wish I could have stepped up to an EX-8 to get the Trek DRCV, it's dual chambers really combines the advantages of a low pressure shock with a XV can. But does it justify an additional $260 to make the jump (@ '11MY MSRPs)? I figure the XV can on the 7 has done well for me; I have no complaints.
-> Not a big fan of the white highlights all over the bike. But hey, looks great with dirt and mud on it!
Bottom Line:
Fair price for bike. Solid. Quality feel. Suspension quality. Low weight, with great manufacturer frame warranty. Trek name. Didn't want to be just another guy with a Specialized... they breed like rabbits (the bikes, not the riders; no offense, just not a bandwagon type guy).
I love this bike. Don't let my negative comments sway you, I'm really just making changes to make the bike fit me better. It's awesome.
I ride for fun, but also to keep my fitness up for racing. First thought when I took the Fuel EX-7 out was how much it felt like a Ferrari; it's light, responsive, has aggressive XC travel (possibly even a light AM bike?), and is just a solid piece of engineering.
Awesome bike, put it on your short list if you're in the market.
Bike Setup: 2010 Trek EX-7, 8 deg 50mm stem, ODI Rogue grips (in the mail), Topeak Mini G
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Submitted by
Ben.Nesheim
a Weekend Warrior
from mankato minnesota united states
Date Reviewed: November 12, 2010
Strengths: One of the best full suspension bikes. Looking at the differences between the fuel ex line the 7 is a great balance of great framework and decent parts.Solid bike great for a long time biker or new to the sport and coming from a hard tail. The rear shock is silky smooth and works effortlessly with the bike. Coming from mostly BMX bikes and hard tails this bike is tough. Many days its worked hard and put away dirty and just keeps putting out!
Weaknesses: Pedals are not the greatest just dealing until they break. Seat was not my bag so i replaced it with a cheapo nashbar seat. The tires were great off road but i do ride in town a bit so i went to some wtb graffiti dh tires and they are silky smooth.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. The frame matches the models right above it that aren't carbon so this is a steal with some parts that are easily replaced when you feel the urge. Plus picking it up for one hell of a discount couldn't have made it better :P
Similar Products Used: Trek 6000disc, Trek 4300, Giant XTC Disc, S and m Holmes, Fit Series one, Gt Power Series,
Bike Setup: mostly stock cept my seat and tires. Doesn't need much til it breaks :)
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Submitted by
steelwings66
a Cross Country Rider
from waterford michigan
Date Reviewed: October 27, 2010
Strengths: after a ton of research...for the price I paid....this thing rocks! I had to order the 2011 and couldnt wait to get it. The components are great. shifts and brakes like a dream. It's solid and climbs like a beast, just add a little ass and away you go.
Weaknesses: the awesome flat finish scratches easy but it's not in the wood's for show so I guess if there was one thing that was bad...thats it.
Bottom Line:
bottom line is this.....do your reviews on all of the componants...you will come up with the same answer as I did if this is your price range. Gotta go, trail is calling!
Bike Setup: all stock. bontrager, fox front and rear, shram gears, avid elixer. Couldnt ask for a better ride!
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Submitted by
bobcatharris
a Weekend Warrior
from Vail
Date Reviewed: August 2, 2010
Strengths: Good Quality Frame, torque from the cranks, decent components and good quality for the price.
Weaknesses: Seat is hard as hell. Tires only good for hardpack but nothing else. Horrible on sand, rocks and side tread not that aggressive. Almost killed myself on a turn with loose silt. Rear Suspension could be better but that is fixed with the new Fuel bikes. 100mm travel is a minimum and would be better with 120mm+ travel
Bottom Line:
Good value for the money. Better than entry level and needs minor changes to be a great rider. Seat and tire changes recommended.
Submitted by
tomeeskeburbs
a Cross Country Rider
from nevada city, california, U.S.A
Date Reviewed: August 2, 2010
Strengths: every thing
Weaknesses: nothing
Bottom Line:
This bike is a wonderful bike. It is great for any type of riding. I use it for every ride i go on, road, downhill, xc, etc. I would recommend this bike to anybody. If you are looking at the ex 5 dont waste your time, choose this bike. Its worth the extra dollars.
Submitted by
NJMTB
a Weekend Warrior
from Jersey City, NJ
Date Reviewed: July 31, 2010
Strengths: ABP rear linkage design works fantastic, stiff frame, solid FOX front and rear suspension - this thing climbs anything and with gravity on your side it is a ROCKET
Weaknesses: The stock tires take up too much space in my trash can, the low speed technical handling is kinda off maybe
Bottom Line:
Unbelievably good bike. Just awesome. I love this thing like a fat kid loves cake. Climbs ANYTHING - the rear suspension stays totally active and keeps the rear tire glued to the trail. Descending is the same - grab a big handful of rear brake and there's no skidding because the tire is always in contact. Good lateral stiffness back there too. Sure there are lighter bikes out there, or you could get an extra inch of travel, but for the money this is the one. I have never felt anywhere near this confident on descents - this bike just plain loves to go down. Get better tires - they limit the bike - no matter how high I ran the pressure I kept getting pinch flats in rock gardens, and the traction just isn't there. Take the time to dial in the pressure on the rear shock - just 5 psi off in either direction and you're out of the sweet spot.
Strengths: Very fast on the downhills. It just wants to go faster and faster. Suspension sucks up everything. Makes you feel like you're a better rider than you really are. The propedal is great for obstacle-free climbs. Perfect geometry for all day rides. ABP pivot makes a real difference on rocky downhills. Climbs surprising well given its weight and 120mm of suspension.
Weaknesses: A little on the heavy side (29 lbs for my 18.5 frame). Avid Juicy 3 brakes are a hassle - never seem to stay put after an adjustment. At slower speeds, cornering is not great - center of gravity seems just a bit high (removing a spacer or two from the stem helped this). And the tires have to go immediately.
Bottom Line:
If you're a trail rider - anything from casual to aggressive, this bike is a great choice. I bought a 2009 left-over, and at $1650 it is really a good value. I've pushed this bike really hard at times and haven't found anything yet that it can't handle. If you have XC race aspirations or want a really light, flickable bike, look elsewhere.
Bike Setup: Stock 2009, except: SLX crankset, Panaracer Fire XC tires
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Submitted by
sonic reducer
a Downhiller
from seattle wa usa
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2010
Strengths: climbs, handles great! light and reasonably stiff for the weight. frame has excellent engineering throughout with the abp rear pivot and one piece evo link. I found it to be the best technical singletrack climbing bike Ive ever ridden. the suspension just plain works for that.
Weaknesses: does not shred quite like I'd want. a slightly bigger, stiffer fork would help. thinwall tubing dents easily, rockshox recon fork is flexy and no height adjust, but thats just nitpicky crap.
Bottom Line:
I owned a fuel ex7 for a good while and put many miles on it. the quality of the frame was excellent. for its intended purpose as a general trailbike, it really excels. i rode everything at moab on it, raced 24hrs of moab, super tech singletrack, long gravel access roads, etc. It was the first real nice XC FS bike I had. I appreciate the speed it had, but did not like the downhill handling much. I found myself backing down from hits on the trail sometimes because i never really felt all that comfortable in the air on it(and ive jumped a 35x15' step down on dh). if you are more of a xc rider than a dher, this is the trek for you. if you are a dher looking for a trailbike, definitely spend the extra on a remedy. that said if i had room in my quiver for a dedicated xc bike, the fuel would be it.
Bike Setup: stock except for salsa moto lite xc carbon bars, specialized eskar or michelin comp 16s, 50mm truvativ stem, shimano 535 pedals or easton flats, race face bash ring
