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Submitted by
TallChris
a Racer
from Columbia, SC
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | FATS | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | mtbr.com classifieds | | Strengths: | Light weight - 25lbs - for the size (XL) | | Weaknesses: | Shimano xtr m960 chainrings - proprietary and expensive.
Rear carbon swingarm is known for cracking, however I rode it like that for years before replacing it. | | Bike Setup: | Easton setback seatpost, ergon grips. XT front derailleur, xtr m952 rear derailleur, xt750 cassette. Bontrager race lite wheelset. SID race titanium front shock, Fox Float RL rear shock. | | Bottom Line: | Well rounded endurance racing steed. The '02 is obviously dated at this point, but a steal if you are just getting into racing and can find one in good shape. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO
Date Reviewed: October 16, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Sovereign Trail | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | used on Mtbr.com | | Strengths: | Fast, quick handling, bomb proof frame and pivots. Rides like a hard tail. | | Weaknesses: | Chain suck, Rides like a hard tail. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Raven, Rocky Mountain Element TO, Turner Sultan 69er, Intense Spyder 69er | | Bike Setup: | Fox FLR80, xt/xtr shift/der, Raceface cranks, DT Swiss Onyx hubs with XR 4.1 rims, Avid BB7 brakes | | Bottom Line: | This is a great tight single track bike with race quick steering. I have used and abused this bike for over 6 years and I can't kill it. The pivot has never been serviced and only requires a little minor tightening about once a year. The only thing that this bike doesn't do well, for what I'm looking for in a bike, is handle rough trails like Porcupine Rim or other trails better suited to a long travel bike. It'll do them, but you'll come home wishing for more suspension travel. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tommy
a Cross Country Rider
from Netherlands
Date Reviewed: April 28, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$3500.00 | | Strengths: | light, fast, nice disign and very good materials( titianum, zr 9000 alu enz,) | | Weaknesses: | i once broken my rear link, because lock up forgotten. Head-set | | Bike Setup: | xtr 2007, hydrolic brakes, everything; exept xt crank+Q-rings. Bontrager xXx stem flat handelbar stuf, twister head sett. Fox 80 fork | | Bottom Line: | This bike is so good and i had a lott fun rinding whit it.
A lot off maintence it's normal i think my next bike is gonna be a turner nitroux it's the fuel 100 big brother. I still used it for competitions. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonas Neeser
a Cross Country Rider
from Pocatello, Idaho
Date Reviewed: November 8, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Katsilometes | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Used (mtbReview) | | Strengths: | Fast | | Weaknesses: | Chainsuck, chain gets caught in chainstay | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. It is a good bike to buy if you want fast rather than plush. I have a lot of miles on my bike but it is still going strong and although it is old it is not obsolete. The rear triangle recently cracked and Trek, through my LBS, replaced it no questions asked. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonas Neeser
a Cross Country Rider
from Pocatello, Idaho
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Katsilometes | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | Used (mtbReview) | | Strengths: | light and fast | | Weaknesses: | chain suck | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. I have put a lot of miles on it and it is still in good shape and still fast. My LBS noticed the frame was cracked in an aluminum section of the carbon rear triangle. Trek replaced the carbon rear triangle free, no questions asked, no hassles. It is a race bike, not a trail bike. It is made for speed more than comfort. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin
a Racer
from wellington FL
Date Reviewed: January 8, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | nothing their no good | | Weaknesses: | cheap design | | Similar Products Used: | would never use a trek only fisher | | Bike Setup: | cake marlin soon fat possum and king fisher | | Bottom Line: | i work at a shop in my town in florida for 2 years.in my time a the shop i have seen 3 fuel break 2 in front of me in the trail. we now a a small colection of about 6-7 frames all broken. even thought the bike is carbon fiber the truth of it is that they ARE NOT LIGHT BIKES. i don't care who u r weigh ur frame its fat if u want a light race bike buy a hard tail or a salsa the treks design is horriable BUSHINGS should never have been put it the bikes they r used just to keep the weight down and make the bike cheaper to build on the top fuels u need to cheak ur carbon rocker arms because the will ovalize in time they do not have metal incerts in those rocker arms ur accually ridding on the carbon so stupid.also the swing arms seem to have a bad habbit of shifting over on the bikes causing the rocker arms to rub the frame so take a close look at ur bike befor u ride it next time. it will also throw ur chain alignment way off trek even tryed to "fix" this problem by yes belive this or not sending us diffrent bushing sizes that u would use to SHIM it back into place.once agin so stupid. and i don't know how many of u have ever completly taken the bike apart but when u tighen the rear swing arm to the torque setting suggested by trek u can't hardly move the damn rear end so don't. then they say not to use grease to make them work better?!the only good thing about them is they always warrenty the bikes prob. because they know they suck. bottom line they are to heavy yes i said it and too cheaply design to make up for being that heavy.salsa's full supension frame have all sealed bearings and scandium frames and they r way lighter.know this carbon fiber in my opinion is just bling bling right now u can get alloy bike stiffer lighter and cheaper and that dosn't just go for frames i am talking about everything cranks handle bars ect so befor u buy ur next up grade no matter what it is do ur homework on it and be open minded to other options. p.s. Gary Fisher bike rule the world GO Fisher!! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dr. Dan Batchelor
a Racer
from Roswell, Georgia, USA, Earth
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Blankets Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$3200.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Lightweight, direct power transfer with very little loss of energy, carbon absorbs lots of shock, climbs likes its on steroids, front lockout is dreamy. Its a babe magnet. | | Weaknesses: | no ash tray or radio | | Similar Products Used: | Everything with 2 wheels | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Maxxis Larsen UST tires | | Bottom Line: | Doctors orders- Buy one today!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin Conolly
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, NSW, Australia
Date Reviewed: November 26, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Oaks | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Clarence St. Cyclery | | Strengths: | Weight, balance, acceleration | | Weaknesses: | irritating creak from the BB, both with old and new crankset
| | Similar Products Used: | STP 200, ProFlex 555 | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded via weight shaving (example: Wipperman chain) by previous owner, a sponsored racer. I upgraded the drive train to full '04 XTR (v-brakes) 4 mos. ago. | | Bottom Line: | A sponsored racer upgraded to a later model and his '02 Fuel 100 was sold as a ex-demo for 1/2 price. Wooo Hooooo! My first Full Sus after 3 years on a soft tail. What a difference! This bike is very nimble and responsive and rides best when riden fast. After the upgrade to '04 XTR the bike weighs in around 23 1/2 pounds.
You can be more aggressive with this bike because it's very nimble and responsive. You can make a last minute change and still nail a tough section of the trail. Good climber and no issues descending. Obviously it's not for hucking or freeriding but the average rider on the average trail should have no dramas.
I've done all day epic rides with no soreness afterwards. (Middle aged riders take note.) I like the extended top tubes of the Trek bikes. I'm 6'0" and weigh around 185 pounds. My arms are long for my body size.
The bike seems to be quicker than my friend's '03 Epic.
This is the last year of the aluminum front triangle for the Fuel 100. If you can live without a carbon fibre front and find one of these used get it. You'll get most of the benefit of the Fuel without the steep price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlotte, NC
Date Reviewed: July 12, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Strengths: | Light, strong, comfortable in all-around riding, climbs great, rolls over obstacles real nice - good balance and torque to push during low momentum.
Can handle heavy/big riders.
Trek's name, reputation, and guarantee. | | Weaknesses: | A note about Fuel 100 chainsuck: Chain suck is one common problem I've noticed experienced by many 100 owners...as per so many comments below. I can also confirm this is mostly due to the frame design. Usually happened to me when climbing and the shock is compressing...best way to bypass this is to NOT shift during a climb - which is a no-no anyway, right?!? So, be sure to shift down in preparation for your climb when the rear shock is under little to no compression force. This will keep the chain stay from bobbing and catching the chain to suck it up between the frame and front rings behind the bottom bracket.
If you do experience chain suck, lay your chest(weight) over your saddle facing down toward the front cranks. Place thumb on top of the chain by the chain suck and push down with thumb as you compress the shock. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek ST120
I've forgotten all the rest since getting my Fuel 100!! | | Bike Setup: | Race Face Next
Chris King hubs and headset
XTR D's, shifters/brakes
Mavic Ceramic Rims
Easton Carbon bars and seatpost
RockShox Sid w/blackbox carbon crown
Bonty Saddle
Thomson stem
Tires:
Front Panaracer Fire XC 2.10
Rear Panaracer Trailblazer 2.10 | | Bottom Line: | The combination of my Fuel 100 and NC trails are just about more than I can stand!! I've tripled my mileage since moving to NC....The Fuel 100 is a big part of that!
I have learned even more about the bike and the way it rides - put the Panaracers on and WOOHOO! hang on!! Those bad-boys love the terrain up here. The combination tells me that this bike is getting dialed in just right!
This bike is truly worth the money and I wouldn't change it for the world - it feels more like an extension of myself now! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jap perez
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami Beach, Fl. USA
Date Reviewed: May 5, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Oleta River | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Coral Way Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Very light and nimble, quick and responsive. Great looking bike. Good components options (bontrager) | | Weaknesses: | Feels too light sometimes when ridden hard, breaking is also weak mostly on downhills. | | Similar Products Used: | giant | | Bike Setup: | shimano XTR, Bontrager, hutchinson mosquito, easton carbon, avid v-brakes, sella italia SLR. | | Bottom Line: | Great all around bike, I also use it for training on road.
Tends to get loose, especially on tight trails due to the lightness of the bike, takes getting used to. Great upgrade for someone looking to get serious about the sport, not for recreational use once or twice a week use, bike is made to be ridden.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mario Muredda
a Cross Country Rider
from Kingston, Ontario
Date Reviewed: November 4, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Private | | Strengths: | Racy geometry, light, quick in the turns, light, beautiful suspension, light | | Weaknesses: | Crappy bonty seatpost, flexy wheels/crank | | Bike Setup: | Stock, soon to add Thomson seatpost, '03 XTR crankset, and remote lockouts | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks!! Light, fast, responsive. The Avid Ti brakes are phenomenal...who needs discs when these are coupled to ceramic coated rims? Very racy geometry is great in singletrack...watch out for technical descents though--the short cockpit makes these tricky. Put some Wildgripper comps on this bike and it's a rocket. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Stovall
a Racer
from Marietta, GA
Date Reviewed: September 3, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Oak Mountain State Park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Free-Flite Bycycles | | Strengths: | Strong light-weight frame with a geometry that can out-perform just about anything. The suspension, when properly dialed in is also awsome. The Bonty stuff is pretty high end as well. Does this thing LOOK super fast or what? Many riders get out of my way just because it looks like a race bike. | | Weaknesses: | The chain suck and chain drop problems on the bike is ridiculous. It happens when changing from the middle chain ring to the little one. The problem is that you have to do this type of shifting quite often when you are about to hit an unexpected steep climb. I have not seen one of these bikes that hasn't had its paint scraped off by the chain in the chain stay area. Not to be a winer(sp), but this problem has made me lose a little confidence when I'm about to dash up a climb. Front and Rear Derailer need constant adjustment. I have broken spokes in the rear Bonty twice in 30 days. | | Similar Products Used: | GF Sugar 1- Thanks to King JP,
Mongoose- Everyone has to start somewhere,
GT Avalance- Thanks to King T,
GT i Drive 2.0- May it rest in peace,
Titus Switchblade- Thanks to the other Bill | | Bike Setup: | Stock except I have swapped out the Botrager Cranks in favor of Shimano XT. | | Bottom Line: | This Bike Rocks. After upgrading from a pretty decent mongoose('98) and an excellent GT I-drive (2001 2.0), I am convinced that this bike definately race inspired. It can and will outperform just about anything out there. If you get this bike and don't win a race, it aint the bikes fault-believe me I know.
SUSPENSION
I should start out by saying that I am nearly 230 lbs during the off-season and 215 lbs during the race season(and not fat). So this was a real concern for me. I think the suspension on this bike is outstanding if properly dialed in. It is stiff enough to support my weight and I don't notice any bobbing when I am seated. If I need to eliminate any bobbing when I am out of the saddle(such as the Oak Mountain and Ducktown fireroad climbs) I can simply lock out both front and back. By the way, who needs remote lock out anyway. That's like a remote control for your car stereo. If you are that lazy, you need't be riding. On balance, however, the bike takes corners, technical sections and down hills like a dream. Minimal bouncing, good tractions and abailty to negoitiate obstacles are all characteristic of this baby! It predictabilty also helps you do one heck of a wheelie!
COMPONENTS
Mostly Bonty Race Lite stuff. I beleive that it is all pretty high end and would not replace it unless you have a hole burning in your pocket. It's strong, light weight and goes with the color scheme. You also have some of the best that money can buy in the Avid Ti brakes, Crane Creek(Dia Compe) headset, and Time Carbon pedals.
DRIVE TRAIN
This is good stuff for most riders. After all of the reviews slammed the Bonty Crankset for chain suck and then experiencing it myself the first time riding this Bike, I swapped in my fairly new Shimano XT's. Unfortunately this has not helped the chain suck problem, so maybe its not the cranks or shifters, as much as frame design. When dialed in the system does work great. You can't beat XTR rear derailers. Maybe I need to consider upgrading to XTR all around.
WHEELSET
I am told that this wheelset is on of the best that money can buy for most riders. The sealed bearings hubs are great. The ceramic coat finish (which is no longer available on Bontragers) works excellent with the Avid Ti brakes. This thing will throw you over the bars if you are not careful-no need for discs here. They are also some of strongest and lightest wheels out there. I have however, broken spokes on two recent occasions in the rear-I believe to be because of my weight because I was not riding hard at all. Even then, after repalcing the spokes
the wheels remained completely true. I do have a 3 strikes rule so these may be up on ebay.
Bottom line, I stongly recommend this bike if you are an intermediate to expert cross country racer who can afford it. I would not recommed this bike for casual trail cruisng. The bike is just not that comfortableIt would be like your grandmother bying a fully stout Muscle car for Sunday morning grocery shopping- it just wouldn't be right.
Big B
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steve schriver
a Cross Country Rider
from panorama city, ca. usa
Date Reviewed: September 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Brand Motorway | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2750.00 | | Purchased At: | Universal cycle | | Strengths: | light,fast,durable,and efficient | | Weaknesses: | tubeless system stinks | | Similar Products Used: | everything | | Bike Setup: | stock with the exception of tires, anything but stock. I've also changed out the seat. The crank will get changed as soon as the Bonty dies. | | Bottom Line: | I'm 5'10" and weigh almost 200 lb's (not fat). The bike has been pretty near bulletproof. I have had occasional chain suck, but, back pedalling has always solved the problem quickly. This is a great bike to climb on. I never lock out the rear shock on the trails as it is rock solid. The Sid on front works well though it does bob a little on steep, rocky climbs. If you want a good challenge, take it up Brand in Glendale and down the La Tuna singletrack. If there are any weeknesses in the bike, you'll find them. I still havn't! AMF. Stevo | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Florida
Date Reviewed: July 31, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | Light and responsive. I weigh 200+ and this bike is pretty strong for its weight(24.75lbs!!!). Great transitional ride - handles everything very well and evenly: comfortable on cross country terrain, screams on the declines, stable when pushing the envelope, decent long climber up to about 40-45 degree inclines(partly depending on terrain and the rider technique). Short climbs of 60+ degrees attained - the full suspension conforms to the transition well. The full lockouts are easy to adjust and gets you as rigid as you want at almost hard tail weight! Best of both worlds. | | Weaknesses: | Frame easily takes on water from the seat tube and its a pain to dry out. LBS hooked me up with a tire tube "home remedy" to cover the seat clamp - it's a shame to see that on something as sweet as the Fuel 100...but Function before Flash is the final word when you get down to it.
Two times had issues with chain suck - ate up the paint job(@ size of a quarter) on the stay. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek ST120
Fuel 90(demo'd)
Kona(demo'd)
Sugar(demo'd) | | Bike Setup: | Race Face Carbon Cranks / RF Rings /"Signature" FR B.B.
XTR Front/Rear D, 9 sp. Cassette, and Brakes
King Hubs and headset
Easton Carbon Bars(Monkey Risers) and seat post
Rock Shox Sid Carbon Front Shock
Factory Fox Rear Shock
Time Carbon Titan Clipless Pedals
Mavic 517 Ceramics
WTB Raptor Tires (Where weight can be shaved, weenie!) | | Bottom Line: | While the new 2003 Fuel 100's have replaced the front triangle of the frame from the 9000 alloy to TREK Carbon (I think it's the OCLV?), the 2002 is definitely recommended.
It just looks fast - makes you want to ride whether around the block or any trail that you can handle.
This is equipment that is up for any challange that I have thrown at it.
If you get the rocks off riding in driving rain and mud(I'm not crazy about that), this may not be for you. But everything else, I have been impressed with the nimble performance of my Trek Fuel on just about any terrain! I have a shot at a move to NC, which will increase this Fuel 100's mileage tenfold!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cross Country Rider
a Racer
from California
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Strengths: | Everything | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | All of them | | Bike Setup: | Stock with a few tweaks | | Bottom Line: | There is no match. Period. Try to catch me. You'll see. They try every weekend. Going up. Going down. They always look at the bike when I pass. They're usually on Santa Cruz's. LOL. This is the fastest ride out there. It is at least in the top two or three at every category. It dominates. It will convert any die hard hardtailer. You will never return. Or, buy something else and pedal harder. LOL. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Karl Ritchey
a Cross Country Rider
from Wilsonville, OR USA
Date Reviewed: February 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | All of them! | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$3500.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Gallery | | Strengths: | Strong riding bike, great suspension, very forgiving when it needs to be. Climbs like a mountain lion. Light weight. | | Weaknesses: | Chain suck issues. Some braking issues but I am 220+lbs. | | Similar Products Used: | None. | | Bike Setup: | Bontrager ceramic wheels, cranks, and post. XTR rear derailure. XT front derailure and shifters. Avid Ti brakes. Tires vary by ride. | | Bottom Line: | This bike kicks butt!!! Soon to be XTR disc brake and wheel set equipped. Can't see buying a new bike when I am already riding one of the best. Just needs a few component upgrades. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad Schut
a Cross Country Rider
from Marshall, Michigan, USA
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Fort Custer, High Country Pathway, North Country Trail, Vasa | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | Private sale | | Strengths: | -Quality craftmanship, USA made, Lightweight frame.
-Out of all the bikes I tested (Blur, Sugar, Palamino)the Fuel 100 was the best perfomer for epic rides and races.
-Nice touch was the addition of titanium hardware with the carbon rocker link.
-Geometry is very close to my Trek 9.8.
-The Fuel is the perfect bike for epic rides with its 3inches of rear travel and lightweight frame.
-Another nice touch was the additon of a third place for a water bottle cage.
-The Fox Float RL is the best shock. The rebound adjustment of 36 clicks is almost too much, but I welcome the adjustment.
-Replaceable rear dropout.
| | Weaknesses: | -73mm wide bottom bracket shell. I do not understand why Trek does this?
-Bushings in the pivot areas of the rear linkage. There are pros and cons with bushings and bearings. I will see how the bushing hold up for 2003. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Blur and Superlight, GF Sugar 1, and Klein Palamino. | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Manitou Mars Elite, Sram 9.0sl shifters, brake levers, and derailluers. Thomson post, Sram pc-99 chain, XTR wheelset with IRC Serac tires, Bontrager Race Lite cranks, bottom bracket and handlebars, Time Atac Carbon pedals, Control Tech stem, Sram 9.0 cassette, Cane Creek headset, and Flite saddle. | | Bottom Line: | -This is the best bike for the 24 hour racer and epic rider. It is not bad either in circuit races, too.
-Trek did it a great job on the construction and engineer of this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MB
a Cross Country Rider
from SB, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: January 18, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Jesesita | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Friend | | Strengths: | Super stiff carbon/aluminum frame. Great geometry for XC riding. Feels stable at speeds, climbs great, takes up the harshness of the trail w/o loosing any power | | Weaknesses: | Only thing I have noticed is a chain suck when I drop from the middle chainring to the granny. Sometimes the chain gets caught after the swingarm is extended, traping the chain when it rebounds. | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR, Mavic crossmax ust, SID sl, Thompson, WCS bar, stem | | Bottom Line: | My friend, that happens to manage a local bike shop here in Santa Barbara, let me ride his Fuel for a week. Neverless, I rode it every day - even did two trails sometimes. I later begged him to sell it to me so he could buy the 2003 model. It was so fun to ride that I forgot I was actually putting out efforts to climb 3000 foot ascents! I have ridden hardtails ever since I was 5 - riding bmx -and never thought I would need a dual suspension- but it makes such a difference! I could climb anything, I could stay in the saddle over harsh sections, it responds just like a hardtail, it corners like a dream, it hooks up on anything when climbing, and it allows you to pick more creative lines when descending.
All this adds up to conserved energy which equals more fun!
If you are thinking about buying one, think no more. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brent
a Cross Country Rider
from Riverdale, NJ
Date Reviewed: January 11, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Ringwood | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2900.00 | | Purchased At: | Town Cycle - Westmilford, NJ | | Strengths: | Light, fast and fun! | | Weaknesses: | Try changing the tubless tires before you ride. It is difficult on trail. I had a sidewall tear and could not change the tire. I actually broke two tire levers. 3 different groups stopped to help and still had no success. On the plus side the tire never even leaked over the coarse of three months prior to that. Though brands other than the Bontrager Revolt Super X have since. | | Similar Products Used: | NRS Air, Sugar 2 | | Bike Setup: | Stock accept Shimano SPD959 pedals and Cane Creek bar ends. | | Bottom Line: | Sick ride. Never had so much fun riding. Light, fast, true in turns - no bob is great. Liked the lock out at first but now only use it on uphill paved roads. Other than that it is not necassary but still a plus.
I have had the bike 9 months and logged over 180 miles. I love to ski but the snow is beggining to agrivate me. I want to ride! I have fallen in love with the sport again.
I have seen complaints about durability but all have been from riders over 220lbs. Remember this is a light weight race bike.
I am 6'3" 175 never had a problem. By a Fuel you will not regret it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mickey
a Cross Country Rider
from Montréal
Date Reviewed: December 27, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | La Porte à Bicyclette | | Strengths: | fantastic climber; no-bob suspension; very responsive handling; hard tail-like acceleration, with the benefits of full suspension on descents; stiff, light frame. | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | SC superlight, various hardtails | | Bike Setup: | fuel 100 frameset, underworld gen.5 headset, raceface turbine cranks, xtr dérailleurs, xt shifters, fox forx float rl 80-100, hayes hydros, thompson seatpost, titec bar and stem, sram pc-99, michelin wildgripper hot`s` on mavic 317`s. | | Bottom Line: | If you`re looking for a real good XC bike, take a fuel 100 out for a test ride. It`s geometry, rigidity and relative light weight, make this mountain bike feel just right. Thanks to Yvan and Antoine at La Porte, for their advice, and a great build. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sneakyracer
a Weekend Warrior
from SJ, PR
Date Reviewed: November 21, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Strengths: | Awesome Frame, light (for a dual susp.), stiff, climbs extremely well, plush. | | Weaknesses: | none yet mecanically/design? Could do without stickers. | | Similar Products Used: | 1st full susp. rig | | Bike Setup: | Psylo SL, full XT, velocity aeroheat rims. | | Bottom Line: | I got the frame used for $600 (had scratches but its in good shape). I built with mostly new parts i selected (was on a budget). The bike ended up weightin a hair over 25 lb even w/ a psylo sl fork, Xt hubs and velocity aeroheat rims. Coming from a hardtail i expected a lot of susp. bob, well it wasnt there. Its incredible how smooth the bike rides. I noticed the difference from my hardtail even in pavement. The bike is STILL very quick under power and just feels smoother overall and with a LOT more traction than my hardtail on climbs. Its unreal, I dont wanna ride a hardtail again (maybe for fun at times but not for trails). I could do without the team colors (attracts attention) but besides that the bike looks good and works even better. It might not have an exotic name like Elsworth or Titus but the Fuel 100 frame is up there with the best. IMHO underrated at time sjust because of the mainstream Trek name. (add an Anodized finish and some beadblasted parts and u have a clasic like the Truth.)
My total cost for the used frame and the build (mostly new parts like wheelset, fork/headset, cranks/bb/chain/cass.) was about $1250 , for me at least it was a bargain. Its best to get a frame and spec as u wish (and budget allows) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig
a Cross Country Rider
from Simi Valley, CA
Date Reviewed: November 15, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Chumash, Johnsons mtrwy | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | All Pro | | Strengths: | Weight,durability,performance | | Weaknesses: | chain suck problems when dropping from mid to little chain ring. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Sugar | | Bike Setup: | Built bike up from frame set, Manitu Mars Super, XTR shifting,bb,cranks,levers,&hubs w/mavic rims, Panaracer Fire x/c, CK head set, Paul's brakes, Thompson seat post&stem, Titec bars, Time ti pedals, Night Rider HID. | | Bottom Line: | I'm 49, 5'11", 190lbs. This is my dream bike I use for adventure racing. It is the first bike I've had built to my specs and Dave at All Pro did a super job putting it togeather. I typically have the pleasure of riding it 15 to 20 hours per week. The bike is light, agile, and very predictable. I would strongly recommend this bike to anyone who is willing spend in the $3,000 range. The chain suck problem was frustraiting, but I have bolted on a homemade guide which helped. Would have considered Sugar 1, but wasn't avail as a frame set at the time. I love this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matt degeer
a Racer
from ontario
Date Reviewed: October 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | haliburton | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Purchased At: | dukes | | Strengths: | it is an extremly fast bike. there is no bob what so ever climbing hills but still sucks the bumps up for going down. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Bottom Line: | this bike is an awsome bike for someone who is an avid racer and gives it their all. It is worth every penny and it comes with amazing conponents and can take a beatting from a rough race. This bike is an awsome deal for what you get. I would ride it any day. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a
from Harvard, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: October 7, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Landrys | | Strengths: | Wheels, frame, tires, Sid Race, looks | | Weaknesses: | Time ATAC pedal | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 8000 hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Michelin Comp S tubeless tires. Kore pedals. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome. I got a great deal on it ($2100 including tubeless tires). I have been riding a hardtail ever since I've been mountain biking. I can ride faster uphill, downhill and on everything in between with this bike. It looks badass as well. The tubeless tires help the bike hook-up on everything. I got 2nd in my last race; would have been first with this bike. I waited around to test out the Specialized Epic. It is a nice bike but it is very $$$ with a garbage spec. Just compare the 2003 Epic Comp with the 2003 FSRxc Comp. You pay about $900 extra for the Epic technology. My only concern with going to a dualie was bobbing. I don't even notice any and I can lock it out anyway. The tob tube is a little short. The all carbon 2003 Fuels are so expensive and very similar to the 2002's. I would recommend to anyone that you find a 2002 before they're all gone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kenji
a Cross Country Rider
from Baltimore, MD
Date Reviewed: September 8, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Michuax, PA | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | used | | Strengths: | ZR9000 Custom Alloy - carbon fiber stays - bought used of net from Mike at www.momentumcycles.com (thanks Mike). He set this bike up to be race ready and super light. If you live in the St Louis area, you should give them your business! Period. | | Weaknesses: | nope | | Similar Products Used: | GT Avalanche 1.0, Schwinn Homegrown XT | | Bike Setup: | Again, thanks Mike. Chris King hubs and head set, XTR drives, avid stops, SID sl, ti-everyother thing. | | Bottom Line: | Doesn't matter, without all the goodies that Mike at Momentum Cycles (near St Louis?) put on this bike, it rules. Period. I was riding a 2001 GT avalanche 1.0, a boat anchor but sweet none-the-less, the Fuel handles like a dream, soaks up the bumps, lands soft off the jumps, and looks real cool too (all that carbon stuff). I've ridden this bike approximately 5 times, beat the crap out of it, and it still the envy of all other riders when I get back to my truck. Get a Trek Fuel, you won't regret it, and I'm sure Trek will be in business for years should you have a mishap with the the frame. 5 flaming turds across the board!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marc Durand
a Racer
from Loretteville
Date Reviewed: August 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Lac Beauport | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | La Vie Sportive | | Strengths: | AS you can expect from a top of the line full sus bike | | Weaknesses: | The frame cracked after 500 miles. Ok, I weight 240 and I am 6'5' but that's why I bought the best Trek available and that's why I take the largest bike on the market. Of course, it was under the one year warranty but it took over a month to get a new frame ! They weren't any at the home office ! Come on, from a multinational, it disapointe me. I had to put the components on my old Trek 6000 to continue my race season... | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 98, Trek 6000 | | Bike Setup: | original | | Bottom Line: | Really good bike when it's not broken ! (my friend who is 6'4' also crack the frame ! ). Poor service. Next time, I'll get a Kona. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stan
a Cross Country Rider
from NY
Date Reviewed: August 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Rocks | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Clifton Park Sports | | Strengths: | Quick, nimble, fits like a glove, nice & light, lock outs, great suspension, smooth like butter shifting, climbs like a goat! | | Weaknesses: | None so far on my corrected bike | | Similar Products Used: | Planet Earth, Mongoose, Canondale | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Mavic UST crossroc disc wheels, Michelin Comp S tubeless tires, Salsa Flip Lock Skewers, Avid 160 disc brakes, MonkeyLite carbon fiber handlebars, WTB 98 TI saddle, Salsa FlipLock Seatpost | | Bottom Line: | When I first got the bike, everything was great EXCEPT that it was not shifting properly so I brought it back to the dealer. After two visits to the shop, they found out that the pivot points on the main frame were not welded correctly and this was causing missalignment of the gears. After being jerked around by the dealer, I called Trek directly and they took care of it immediately and efficiently.
The bottom line: Make sure you know the dealer's reputation. Ask a lot of questions. Look over your bike with a fine tooth comb for missing bolts, proper alignment, and torque settings.(that Trek will gladly provide to you)
Read your manual for specific details on air shocks.
I am giving the bike a 4 for value rating because of the incorrectly welded frame but once corrected, two thumbs up over all. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hugo
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: August 5, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Martha's | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Weaknesses: | This is an update to a previous review. I went through two rear break pads on the left side in less then two months. The left rear sidewall did not wear as the others did and was eating the pads. Wrote to Trek and they replied that due to issues like mine they would not offer the rims anymore. However instead of replacing mine they rebuilt it. Seams to have worked, but I will keep on eye on it.
Other minor problems with the pedals squeaking. Cannot get ride of it. Now the seat post or rails are squeaking like crazy. I lubed every pivot point and all bolts on saddle - it stoped for one ride. | | Bottom Line: | Still love the bike especially since I got it for $2200, but never had the problems I am having now with my Cannodale Super V. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jake Pantone
a Racer
from Huntsville, Utah
Date Reviewed: July 28, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | All Trails | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Purchased At: | Diamond Peak Ski and Cycle | | Strengths: | Climbing, Flats, Downhill, and she is beautiful. | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager Components(except racelites) | | Similar Products Used: | Ellsworth Truth, Specialized FSR | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR, FSA carbon cranks,Thomson bar and stem, Marzocchi Atom Race Fork, and Racelite Wheelset. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a winner, I love it and I'll never ride my hardtail again. I bought a frame and built it up to my liking that's why it cost me more. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Owen McMahon
a Racer
from Toms River, NJ,USA
Date Reviewed: July 27, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Round Valley Resevoir, Lebanon, NJ | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Purchased At: | Pete's Bike & Fitness | | Strengths: | The bike actully flies. If you want to hop over an obstacle you merely have to think it and your in the air. The suspension is unbelievable and the lockouts are still working after a few dozen serious outings. The Racelite wheels are awesome. Better tubeless design than my Crossroc set. I am very impressed with the quality work of this frameset. | | Weaknesses: | No real weaknesses. Should be complete XTR though, I'll do that over time. | | Similar Products Used: | GT i drive 1.0 (still waiting for my warrenteed frame since Feb!) GT XCR 4000 | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for Connex chain purchased because supposedly indestructable. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. You will have complete confidence with this machine, your riding partners will not be quite as fond of it. If you are into racing and winning this bike is worth every penny of the price. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Racer
from N. Stonington, CT, U.S.
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Salmon River | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Purchased At: | Direct from Trek | | Strengths: | The ZR9000 frame is much stiffer and lighter than the old SLR frame. Making this great climbing bike even better. The bike tracks very quickly and doesn't feel nervous doing so. While not great, the bike is an under rated descender. The Rolf wheels are the best I've ever used light and strong, enough said. (I've had both the 2001 and 2002 frames) | | Weaknesses: | I'd like Rock Shox to either get rid of lock-outs all together or simply make one that will last longer than 5 or 6 rides. The Bontrager cranks flexed too much for me. (a lighter rider would have no problems) | | Similar Products Used: | S-Works M5 FSR, Rocky Mountain Instinct, Cannondale Jekyll and Scalpel, Kona Moko Moko, Gary Fisher Sugar, Giant NRS air. | | Bike Setup: | Grip shift 9.0 and 9.0 SL, Easton monkey light riser, Thomson stem and seat post, King head set, XTR cranks and BB, Sella Italia Era saddle | | Bottom Line: | This bike is fast. I mean really fast. Rolling single track, the bike keeps it's momentum with out even thinking. Climbing; out of the saddle or sitting down the bike is stiff and responsive a match for any hardtail out there. The real joy of this bike is to ride it for a long period of time, three to four hours on the bike and you'll see in almost every situation this bike excels. The real bottom line. If you are the type of person who will never ride a full suspension bike give the Fuel a try, you won't regret it. I know that I don't. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich K.
a Cross Country Rider
from Calumet City, IL.
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | SWEET WOODS/Palos | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Purchased At: | Calumet City Cyclery | | Strengths: | Awesome bike in all conditions! Just returned from VACA in UTAH. Downhilling was SWEET! Took all the terrain and then some. | | Weaknesses: | None so far! Well that Cane Creek headset doesn't match a thing, Put on the best: KING! Black | | Similar Products Used: | Team GT-RTS, not much suspension! | | Bike Setup: | Stock + King headset, Bontrager Modified Disc Wheelset, Avid Mech. Disc and Oury Grips | | Bottom Line: | Bottom Line: This bike is very sweet! Rides like a plush couch on wheels and climbs like a goat on steriods.
I've only had this bike 2 months and have had no problems.
Any person looking into FS right now should consider this bike. VERY LIGHT(24.0lbs)STOCK, Mine is 24.6 with the disc's. You cant go wrong with a FS having 3 inches of travel front/reat and Disc brakes under 25 lbs!!!!
Pick one up, you will not be disappointed!
Racenrich | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Racer
from Langhorne, PA USA
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Valley Green | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Purchased At: | Guy's Bikes | | Strengths: | You name it. Every stinking thing you can think of is balls on this rig. | | Weaknesses: | Nothing, except I don't care for tubless tires. They loose air....period! | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing really, Specialized FSR Enduro. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Python Air Light tires WITH TUBES. | | Bottom Line: | This rig is wonderful. The first time on this bike, on a 9.4 mile loop that I train on, I beat my best time by almost 4 minutes, the first out. I could not believe it. This thing floats like a butterfly and respondes like an F14. It is truly a work of technology.
If you are looking for a fast, agile, racing machine, look no farther. Just dig deep into your pocketbook and buy this thing.....unless your running in the series I race in and then.....boy this thing sucks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neumy
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, UT
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Bottom Line: | This is my first MTB so I spent a long time researching and demo'ing bikes. Having been a roadie snob for so long, I worried about pedal bob quite a bit. This bike won me over with great balance, no bob (something roadies take for granted), and stability at high speeds. I'm still a newbie on dirt trails, and handle my bike a lot like my road bike, but this bike is very forgiving. Now I spin my road bike on weekdays, and ride trails on weekends. Best of both worlds.
It's little pricey for someone just getting into the sport, but if you love bikes, buy this bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Racer
from Burbank,Ca
Date Reviewed: June 23, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Light, Climbs well,Decends even better | | Weaknesses: | I bought the frameset and had it built up all XTR.The first week I had rode it, it chainsucked. It is a intermittent problem that nobody who has looked at it can figure out.It does it when I shift from middle ringin the front, big cog in the back, to the little ring in the front. | | Bike Setup: | XTR, King, Thomson, Manitou, Easton | | Bottom Line: | I really like this bike a lot,and I have a couple of ideas of my own the fix it. Possibly a narrower bottom bracket.I think it has something to do with the chain line in 2-1 gear combo.Aside from this very fustrating problem the bike is awsome. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Racer
from Williamsburg, VA
Date Reviewed: June 17, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Purchased At: | BikeBeat Williamsburg | | Strengths: | Fox Shock, Tubeless Wheelset | | Weaknesses: | Haven't found any so far, but the Sugar's XTR components would've been nice. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Paragon and Sugar 1, Fuel 98 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I was absolutely amazed at the difference this bike made in my riding times, especially with it being a full suspension. I have been racing for about two years on my Paragon hardtail and deciced to go with a full suspension. This bike is slightly lighter than my hardtail and has all the benefits of a full suspension. I demo'd the Fuel 98 and the Sugar 1 and while the Sugar is a sweet bike it seemed like it didn't handle quite as well as the Trek. It seemed I would always lose the front wheel in tight corners, where the Fuel was much more predictable in a slide. Once I got on the Fuel 100, rode it a few times and got the Sid Race and Fox shock tuned to my riding style and weight I took over a minute off my times at my local trail just from the new bike. Wow! I am really looking forward to this fall's race series now more than ever. Compared to the Sugar the price was right as well, obviously because the Bontrager and XT components are quite a bit cheaper than full XTR. My bike did come with Michelin tubeless tires though even though my LBS was expecting the regular tires as advertised, guess I got lucky. If you want a bike that can make a significant difference to an intermediate to advanced rider the Fuel 100 is for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug Lane
a Cross Country Rider
from Gainesville, GA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Chicopee Woods (outer loop) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Town USA | | Strengths: | Lightweight, looks great, rides great | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Y-22, Trek 9900 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for a Titec bar, Ritchey stem and Speedplay Frogs | | Bottom Line: | This bike is the best bike I have ever ridden. It rides like a hardtail but has the benefit of F/S when things get rough. I have ridden over 700 miles since purchasing the bike in March, '02 and have not had any problems with the bike except for minor adjustments and I had to replace the chain. At first, I was kind of unsure about the Bontrager Cranks since my old bike had XTR. The Bontrager Cranks work as well, if not better than my XTR and the Bontrager is actually lighter and because of more bottom bracket selection than the XTR you will be able to lighten things up even more. Right now my bike weighs in at 22.9 lbs. Not bad for a F/S bike. I weigh about 215 lbs. and have not had any problems with wheels, cranks, or any other parts flexing or breaking. This bike is the best bike on the market!!! If you ride a hardtail and want to switch to F/S but want a bike that still rides similiar to a hardtail, this bike is for you. If I could I would give the Fuel 100 6 Chilis. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hugo
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike USA | | Strengths: | The light weight and lock out of both the front and rear shock make this an excellent climbing bike. Just upgraded from a Cannondale Super V and did not lose any suspension travel but lost 3.5 lbs. Better then any diet I've ever been on. Great for any cross country riders. | | Weaknesses: | The flat bars do not rotate around the top tube. Found out the hard way when I crashed on a corner. Bent the brake lever and dented the top tube. May have ruined a brand new race bike $##@!!!!
Had to wait until the bike shop went out of business and cut the price 30% before the wife would let me bring it home. | | Bike Setup: | Factory set up with addition of a riser bar -see weaknesses. | | Bottom Line: | Definitely need to add either a riser bar or stem to prevent damage to the top tube.
Why did Trek provide a tubeless rim with conventional tires?? Are they admitting that the Bonti rims leak?
Despite the handle bar/frame issue the bike is great for cross country riding.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kelly Brock
a Racer
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: June 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Manfield | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Weight, climbing efficiency. | | Weaknesses: | wheels, cranks (flex). | | Bike Setup: | Shimano XTR wheels, Hayes hydrolic brakes, USE carbon
post, FS200 ti saddle, race face next LP cranks,
monkey lite bar. | | Bottom Line: | This is an updated review from April. I love this bike
since I updated the wheels, brakes and cranks. The bonti cranks had a lot of flex to them as well as the front wheel. This is a great climber and is fast in the single track. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert
a Cross Country Rider
from Drexel Hill, PA
Date Reviewed: May 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Brandywine | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Bike Line - Wilmington, DE | | Strengths: | Full Suspension. After riding a Klein Attitude Race hard tail for two years, I did not think ever switching to a dual suspension bike. After a one week demo on a Fuel 90, I fell in love with the bike. The bike handled like a race car. It felt crisp and was quick to respond to every log, rock garden, and obstacle in its way. If the Fuel 90 handled that well, I knew I could'nt go wrong with with 100. Also, the team at Bike Line in Wilmington, DE did an excellent job in selling me the bike. Their knowledge and experience with bikes is well worth the trip! | | Weaknesses: | After using Bontrager RE-1 pedals the Time ATAC took some to adjusting to get use to. Bombing down a hill got cought up on some rocks and could not get me left foot out to push off. Well I saved the bike, but sprained by thumb. There was a creak (or squick) that was annoying. After taking back to Bike Line it was resolved by lubricating and adjusting the crank. | | Bike Setup: | Stock. | | Bottom Line: | If your a purest like me and thought a hard tail is the cats meow, my suggestion is to demo a Fuel. The bikes setup is great where I can lock out the SID and Fox and still have a hard tail feel. You can't go wrong on this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nat Thew
a Cross Country Rider
from Bangkok Thailand
Date Reviewed: May 17, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | It keeps me from searching for a better F/S bike. | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up of my 02/04/02 review. My seat stay cracked because of the poor design(it seemed like seat stay was made out of three tubes welding together). Trek sent me a new frame--one piece seat stay. Great service from both Trek and my dealer, Probike. Five chilis for them. I haven't had any problems with the frame so far, and it shouldn't be. I'm a 6' 190lb rider. I'll have a lot of fun with this bike for a long time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
claude gregory
a Racer
from Sterrett, AL, USA
Date Reviewed: May 15, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Cahaba Cycles | | Strengths: | Weight, Components, Geometry, Frame Materials | | Weaknesses: | Haven't found any yet | | Similar Products Used: | Replaced Fisher Josha. Tested Sugar 1. | | Bike Setup: | 21.5 frame, Michelin Tubeless, Shimano 959 pedals, everything else standard | | Bottom Line: | Bike is better than advertised. Climbs unbelievable, fast thru tight single track. Haven't needed the rear lockout at all. Use the front climb it control on smooth climbs. I'm a larger sized rider (6'2", 195#) and I love the bike. I would recommend this bike to anyone. Bike was 25lbs 1oz out the door with reflectors. Not bad for a XL frame.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa, FL US
Date Reviewed: May 9, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Roots, Washboard, Bowling Balls | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3700.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Nearly eliminated bob. Warranty. Fairly light. Climbs & sprints well for dual sus. set-up. | | Weaknesses: | Crown on top of seat stay collects crud. Silly seat tube diameter. Tubes dent easily. | | Similar Products Used: | FSR, Tracer, Cannonfail | | Bike Setup: | SID SL, XTR, Mavic Xmax Tubeless | | Bottom Line: | Solid race bike, but somewhat prone to breakage. Warranty is "No Questions Asked", so you've got no worries. Some 'cross riders may not be comfortable with slightly racey geometry. Yours for | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Sarnia, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 7, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3600.00 | | Strengths: | This bike does everything you want a full suspension bike to do and not do. It climbs like a hard tail and does not squish when out of the saddle. Make sure the shocks are dialed in for your wieght and riding style and you will love this ride. | | Weaknesses: | I haven't found any yet | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Sid Sl Front Fork, xtr bottom bracket, xtr cranks, xtr front der., sram 9.0 sl shorty shifters and rear der., race face team sl head set, thomspson elite stem and seat post, selle italia flite ti gel saddle, easton carbon ec 70 bar, icon bar ends, xtr cassette, mavic crossmax wheelset, xtr chain. total weight 23 pounds on the bathroom scale! | | Bottom Line: | This set up is amazing. I've ridin alot of bikes and race on a weekly basis. I am 34 and like many other riders my age suffer from back pain and fatigue after long rides or intense races. This bike has increased my speed and has removed most of the fatigue that used to slow me down. I can hardly tell its not a hard tail, except when the suspension takes the pounding out of my ride and puts the wasted energy in my legs and lungs. I will be riding this bike for a very long time. Best investment I ever made. Thank you Trek for delivering everything you promised. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich
a Racer
from UT
Date Reviewed: May 4, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Reasonably light. Efficient drive-train. Nice geometry. | | Weaknesses: | Limited travel. Who makes this bike? Bonty stickers are EVERYWHERE. | | Similar Products Used: | Ellsworth Truth. Specialized FSR M5. Gaint NRS. Cannondale Scalpel, Trek 9800 | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for saddle. | | Bottom Line: | I wanted to race full-suspension XC. For that, I really like this bike. People say the Ellsworth, FSR, etc. don't bob, but they do. Stand and pedal. Squish Squish. (I think the Scalpel is the absolute worst for bob. I'd use the lock-out a LOT on that bike). The Fuel doesn't move much -- ever. Personally, I wouldn't buy a Fuel for just riding around, though. If you aren't racing, why not have 5" of travel and just deal with a little bob? (this is what my Ellsworth was like) But for racing I like to be able to stand, mash, spin, and everything in between without squishing, bobbing, etc. The Fuel is good at this. I actually think hardtails are better racers, but the FS is much easier on the back and climbs better in loose terrain. I don't really believe it is much faster on the downhills, but the suspension really helps with fatigue on long rides, and is more comfy all around (I think FS also reduces bent rims and pinch flats).
I don't love BONTY parts, but oh well, probably just prejudice. They seem fine. I wish it used an E-type front der, but it won't fit with the pivot location. Again, oh well. Does seem like they could have gone XTR on the front der, though.
My medium frame was a little over 5 pounds with the headset cups in place (including the rear shock) -- not as light as Trek claims, but actually pretty good. I'm not sure which planet frame makers weigh their frames on (not just Trek), but it isn't this one. This frame is about 2 pounds heavier than my hardtail, and 3/4 pounds lighter than my Truth was.
This is actually a gripe with the fork, but the lockout knob requires a lot of rotation and the knob is too short. It is hard to deal with in a race. Other than that, I really like the fork.
I think most MTB's steer a little too slowly, but this one isn't bad that way.
I think the Giant is clearly a better deal. I think the FSR has a little nicer parts pick.
I chose the Fuel because of the lack of bob, and it has become my favorite XC race bike, which is exactly what it is supposed to be.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bart
a Cross Country Rider
from gent
Date Reviewed: May 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | jura france | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | de broe | | Bottom Line: | a question: i've got the bike on order and will receive it soon. i only tested it quickly, so no comment as i haven't had the time to properly evaluate.
q: i was thinking of mounting disk brakes in stead of the avid's. i read on the magura website that those brakes generate huge amounts of heat. they say it is a problem if the place they are mounted on (front fork, rear triangle) is made out of carbon. now on the fuel 100, the rear is carbon. anyone got experience with rear disk brake not cooling down enough? i haven't read anywhere that that is a problem (reviews from all magura disk brake products). but i suppose on long downhills it could be an issue. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jeff
a Racer
from breckenridge, co
Date Reviewed: April 26, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | stiff, lightweight, great shock and fork, great frame | | Weaknesses: | bonty wheels, 105mm stem | | Similar Products Used: | klein adept pro, specialized s-works FSR, Giant NRS Air | | Bike Setup: | stock except Egg Beater pedals, Easton CT-2 flatbar, Flite TT saddle, Easton CT-2 post | | Bottom Line: | i luv it. only have about 10 rides on this bike, but each ride it gets better. with the upgrades above it is 24.5lbs. i may get a 12-34 Ti XTR cassette and Ti BB to lose maybe 1/4 lb. with the SID and the Float RL, this bike feels VERY balanced. it climbs very well. can't see the need to lock out the rear shock on trail, but on the road it can help if you are really in a hurry. the front wheel flexes some, but does not take away from the performance. i am a 165lb racer, and I have 130pos, 120neg in the SID....and 110lb in the Float RL. value rating may not be accurate as i got a great deal through my LBS.
great bike for any rider or racer. soaks up most bumps well. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Burlingame
a Cross Country Rider
from Waverly, NY USA
Date Reviewed: April 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Asaph Forest in Wellsboro PA | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Purchased At: | Kingsbury Cyclery | | Strengths: | XTR rear deraileur, RockShox SID race fork, Fox RL rear shock, feels very solid on decents | | Weaknesses: | price, Bontrager seat, Bontager Revolt X tires, water bottle placement | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Sugar, Giant NRS | | Bottom Line: | The bike is extremely fast and controlable on steep decents. Climbs great with rear shock locked or unlocked. Feels very solid, even over the roughest terrain. You've gotta love the Time ATAC pedals...I'm hooked.The bike shifts like a dream, even on those occasions where there is torque on the chain. This bike is great for the weekend warrior or the hard core racer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kelly Brock
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, Canada
Date Reviewed: April 2, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | The Shoe | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3799.00 | | Purchased At: | Cyclepath on Bloor | | Strengths: | Sid race fork, no bob rear end and light overall package. | | Weaknesses: | Front wheel flex's when cornering hard due to the radial lacing of the rims. This is expected though and it has no durability issue's. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 8000, FSR XC pro, King Kikapoo, Sugar | | Bike Setup: | Stock with monkey lite carbon riser bar, USE carbon seat post. | | Bottom Line: | This is so far a very nice ride. It is a nice light full suspension ride. Besides the front wheel being a bit flexy I don't have any other issues's with it. It is the most efficiant, and confident inspiring climber I have ever riden. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Douglas
a Cross Country Rider
from Scotland, UK
Date Reviewed: April 2, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Who cares? | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Dooley's Cycles | | Strengths: | Beautiful (well, it's still new!), very light (I bought the frame only) and feels like my old OCLV until I hit the rough stuff. | | Weaknesses: | The nice gloss paint and stickers don't look like they're going to last in sunny Scotland! | | Similar Products Used: | I've only demo'd full suspension bikes but they all felt too "mushy". | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Mars CL forks (avoid!), XTR, Crossmax disc, Hope Mini's & Thomson stuff. | | Bottom Line: | The bike is surprisingly light. Ok, it's probably about 3lb's more than my old OCLV but what a difference in performance! On the smooth stuff while seated there is absolutely no bob from the rear even when pushing. Standing on the climbs obviously moves it a bit but then you just flick the switch to lock it out. Descending is great fun and the 3 inches of travel is so well balanced, it feels a lot more.
After spending the entire winter commuting and mtb'ing on a totally rigid Specialized Rockhopper, this bike has amazed me. Some bumps which made me say "oof" and knocked my nuts inside my abdomen, I don't even notice on this new steed!
The paint and graphics look amazing but for how long? Dark colours always show the scratches but then who cares; it's meant to be ridden.
All the magazines in the UK seem to critisise Trek for still using a bolt-on rear disc mount. I don't understand why as it looks pretty light and understated. I also had no issues setting up the Hopes nor have I had any squeel problems.
To sum up, this bike feels like a fast cross country rigid bike until you hit something bumpy. When you don't think it's doing much just have a look at the shock chattering away.
Don't buy this if you plan an assault on the DH world cup. It's intended as a XC race bike but it's great for all day epics and short blast into the countryside. I hate how manufacturers are now categorising bikes into race, endurance, free-ride, downhill......! Remember 1989 when it was far simpler and we were happy with neon steel framed beasts? Anyway.....
I ordered this frame in December last year and only got it in March - well worth the wait! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pat Keller
a Cross Country Rider
from Berne, BE, Switzerland
Date Reviewed: April 1, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Costa Verde, Sardegna/Italy | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikezone Baden/Switzerland | | Strengths: | amazing lightweight, sleek carbon parts, brandnew custom alloy tubes (even lighter), perfect geometry, quite reasonably priced | | Weaknesses: | couldn't find any so far. (well, the headset maybe. it's not gonna last as long as the rest of the bike, i fear.) | | Similar Products Used: | fuel 98, gorgeous bike, too (if you can't afford the complet fuel 100, stick to the 98, the frame's the same)
rocky mountain element (didn't convince me ) | | Bike Setup: | 2002 frameset with 01 rolf dolomite wheels, xtr/xt, avid sd5 brakes, xt crankset, sid xc... | | Bottom Line: | just the best bike i've ever had by far! it's almost as light as my old race hardtail, yet very stiff. very fast climber, excellent acceleration. feels pretty safe on fast downhills.
no bulls*** components whatsoever. personnally, i always liked the bonty race parts, there's absolutely no obejctive reason to discredit them. they're a very good value and the race series is as light as anything else. this is not a freeride bike, so when you crack that stem, bar or seatpost, you should rethink your eating habits before blaming the material...
finally, do as i did: get that wonderful frameset and customize the rest.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron F.
a Cross Country Rider
from provo, UT
Date Reviewed: March 28, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Light weight, great graphics, no bob on climbs, inspires confidence on the downhills. | | Weaknesses: | The stock Bontrager stuff is crap. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Sugar, GT Zaskar race, many Cannondales, etc. | | Bike Setup: | Marathon fork, Magura marta disc brakes, full xtr, thomson stem and post, hugi 240disc hubs with mavic x3.1 rims, king headset, etc. | | Bottom Line: | This frame is an excellent choice for full-suspension cross country and trail riding. I was skeptical at first that the suspension would be bob-free but now I am a true beliver (amen)! I am faster overall with this frame, and I am growning more confident with every ride. I love the longer geometry, and the suspension design, it is an excellent ride. You won't go wrong with this frame! Happy trails! Five turds for overall rating, four for value because it costs a lot to upgrade all of the crappy and heavy bontrager stuff. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin
a Cross Country Rider
from California
Date Reviewed: March 25, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | too many to list | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Strengths: | It's a Trek, Great climber and decender sprints like a jack rabbit. The list goes on | | Weaknesses: | At first I did not like the ergos of the bike but I did some part swapping and adjusting and now it rides alot better. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Jekyll 3000,Intense Uzzi Sl,Intense Tracer, Etc. | | Bike Setup: | Sid Carbon, Paul V-brakes and levers, Race face next LP cranks W/Ti bottom bracket, Bontrager Valiant rims With Titanium spokes laced to Hugi 240 Hubs, Chris King head set, Thomson 100 degree stem, Carbon fiber seat post (I forgot the name), Easton ct2 carbon bar, Sram 9.0 Sl shifters and deraielurs, Egg beater pedals, Maxxis fly weight tires. | | Bottom Line: | The bike is great I'm just having a small problem adjusting from my Cannondale Jekyll 3000 to the fuel I had to do a lot of adjustments to get it where I felt comfartable Im still getting used to it it's probably because Iv'e been riding a bike with quite a bit more travel. But this bike is great it climbs great decends well to the Sid Carbon is a nice fork plus it weighs 21 1/2lbs. I weigh 168lbs and I'm 5'10" I wouldn't reccomend this bike to anyone over 185lbs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Goose Gossett
a Racer
from St. Joseph, MO
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Landou in Blue Springs | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Ride Bikes | | Strengths: | A million times better than any hard tail out there, even when it comes to climbing. Allows for faster speeds on the most rugged trails. | | Weaknesses: | I haven't found any yet. | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Moab 2 | | Bike Setup: | Full XT, SID XL, Fox vanilla float, Hayes 6" Hydrolic front and rear brakes | | Bottom Line: | I've road the Giant NRS, Gary Fisher Sugar and the Trek Fuel and by far the better of the three was the Trek. Nothing can compare to the sweet ride of a dual suspension on a fuel. Definitely go for the Fuel 100 if you're looking for a duel suspension. I know of one person who has snapped a NRS rear for where it connects to the rear of the triangle of the frame and on the Trek the rear suspension is connected on the bottom allowing for a more reliable frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Evan Freed
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooklyn,NY
Date Reviewed: March 21, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Blue Mountain/Hartshorne | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2900.00 | | Purchased At: | Verazano Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Light, climbs incredible, Fast, handles very good in all kinds of trails | | Weaknesses: | none - even the SID fork holds my weight 197 lbs. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Avalanche, Intense Uzzi SL, Intense Uzzi SLX | | Bike Setup: | seat, post, bars, avid brakes, rims all stock and the rest all XTR. | | Bottom Line: | Even though it doesn't compare to an Intense, It still is a great C.C. bike. I had to send me frame in because there was a defect in the bottom bracket shell so I am not riding at the moment. But once I get the frame back, I will be eating up all the trails in my sweet Fuel 100! You will too! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Z
a Racer
from Houston, TX
Date Reviewed: March 21, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Barn | | Strengths: | Climbs like a dream; light | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager spec stuff
I have broken 3 frames (2 2002 Fuel 100s at the seat tube/top tube junction, one 2001 Fuel 100 at top weld for rocker arm mount on back of seat tube) in a year's time. | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Rocket 88 Stage 1 | | Bike Setup: | full XTR drivetrain (Bonty crankset sucked); Avid
Ti V-brakes (so sweet), traded lame-o Rolf Propel USTs for Bonti UST Racelites (awesome and seemingly bombproof); Easton carbon bar, Thompson seatpost | | Bottom Line: | Despite Trek's representations to the contrary, this bike is too chi chi and flexy for a Clydesdale (215, 6'00"). But Trek is awesome. After breaking my third Fuel 100 since last spring, they have offered the option of a Klein Adept Pro or another Fuel 100. I figured what the heck, let's try the Adept. I am waiting for my new Klein frame, without all the ugly Trek stickers.
I am alreayd mourning the departure from my Fuel. I love the way it rides. Long and short of it - buy the Fuel if you are a flyboy, think twice if you are a Clydesdale. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, TX, USA
Date Reviewed: March 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Rocky Hill Ranch, Austin, TX | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2999.00 | | Purchased At: | Richardson Bike Mart | | Strengths: | Light, Fast, great suspension design. | | Weaknesses: | To keep costs low Trek uses it's own Bontrager components. I am a 240 pound rider and some of the race lite components aren't sturdy enough especially the wheelset | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Moco moco | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Psylo SL, Mavic Crossmax tubeless wheels with Hope Mini Disc brakes | | Bottom Line: | This bike is awesome. Once I traded in the Race Lite wheels for the stiffer Mavic wheels, this bike is the best thing I have ever ridden. Add the Hope disc brakes and it's ready for any trail I ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam L
a Racer
from Orem, Ut, USA
Date Reviewed: March 4, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | The Ridge-AF Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Mad Dog Cycles | | Strengths: | Light and fast. Good component group, handmade in USA. This bike makes it easy to get out everyday and hammer up the hills. | | Weaknesses: | Waterbottle mounts were cheap, they stripped out and I needed replacements-other than this minor blip this bike is perfe | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Y2K Sugar 3 | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I am faster, more effecient and can ride harder longer on this bike. It is backed by a good warranty, a solid company and the worlds best riders. For anyone who is ready to take XC racing to the next level, this is the bike to use. Look for Roland Green to continue to wreak havoc on the racing world with his '02 Fuel 100. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kenny Sipes
a Racer
from E-town, KY usa
Date Reviewed: February 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | KY Bob's | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Strengths: | Looks, Weight with cheap riser bars 26.5 lbs, Good Shifter set up. Light Ass Wheels, Nice Saddle, No bob on climbs, don't even use lock-outs. USA made | | Weaknesses: | Wish it was avail. in disc, Cable housings rub paint bad, Suspension not plush like older full susp. bikes | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing is similiar. | | Bike Setup: | New Setup: Rolf Urracco disc wheels, PANARACER Fire XC, Easton Carbon Fiber Riser Bar, MAGURA MARTA brakes, XTR rear, XT front, SRAM Chain & Cassette, XT Shifters, Time Carbon Pedals, | | Bottom Line: | I love the bike. last years race bike was a 23"schwinn S-10. There is no comparison. The only thing is that the trek is not as plush a ride. Now I have to get my big butt out of the saddle and ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nat Thew
a Racer
from Bangkok Thailand
Date Reviewed: February 4, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1300.00 | | Purchased At: | Sahapat Cycling | | Strengths: | Can't believe the rear travel is only 80mm. The frame is light, yet stiff and fast. It smoked my litespeed on every xc courses I rode. | | Weaknesses: | Poor seat stay design. I repeat, seat stay is crap. The seat stay actually houses only about 3 inches of seat post. Two days ago I landed fairly hard on the back wheel and cracked the seat stay. I honestly don't understand the logic behind such a crapy design. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized S work FSR XC, Sugar 2, Cannondale Jekyll 2000 | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR, Bonty Race Lite Wheel set, Thomson seat post, CT 2 bar | | Bottom Line: | For heavy or aggressive riders, don't land your "fragile" 100 on back wheel or you're gonna break the seat stay. I never did take the seat stay design seriously until I broke it. I'm convinced that defective frame wasn't the case but the poor design was. On the plus side, the bike was everything I expected from a F/S bike. I owned a few nice F/S and decided I stick with my hardtail. However, this bike outperformed every bike I'd ridden. I never thought I would deserted my Ti hardtail for it. About service and warranty, the Trek of Thailand already assured my dealer that the replacement won't be a problem. That's nice, but I'd sell the new frame and buy either an Intense Tracer, or Ellsworth Truth. I'd miss the Trek, but I miss my riding time more. I give 5 chilis for the performance, but 1 for the way the seat stay is. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
freshair
a
from Klagenfurt, Carinthia, Austria
Date Reviewed: January 26, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | www.mountainbiker.at | | Strengths: | - lightweight frame
- nice fox float with lockout
- one of the best fully concepts for cross country | | Weaknesses: | - haven`t found anything yet.... | | Similar Products Used: | specialized S-works Fsr, klein adept, votec m6 light | | Bike Setup: | Fuel 100 frame, Marzocchi Marathon S80, full XTR(only the shifters are xt), Magura Marta, Mavic Crossmax UST disc, carbon seatpost and carbon bar.... 10,8kg!!! | | Bottom Line: | This is the best fully I`ve ever tried!!! The fully system works so well- it soaks up holes, stumps or big stones very excellent- incredible how efficient this bike works(it has only 75mm travel on the rear- but it feel like 100mm-great)!! The Marzocchi Marathon works well (ecc is great- you don`t need barends anymore!!) together with the damper on the rear!!! The Magura Marta is the perfect brake too stop this beast of a bike!!!
My result: Buy this bike if you have the money....!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Krongchai Kasemsrithanawat
a Weekend Warrior
from Bangkok,Thailand
Date Reviewed: January 14, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Cross country | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3100.00 | | Purchased At: | Sangthong Bike | | Strengths: | Good looking , Light weight , Great climber , Fast descender , Sharp handling | | Weaknesses: | Price | | Similar Products Used: | Schwinn Moab 1 Disc 99 | | Bike Setup: | none, shortened handlebar 1.5" each side | | Bottom Line: | This is my first full suspension bike, I love it for fun ride on the small mountain every 2-3 days after I've bought it on Christmas.
I'm 5'7", wt.136lb. and use size 15.5" ,it's top tube seems a little too long for me, but not too discomforted me in an hour ride.
Sid race so sharp looking with smooth work, and can lock up on climbing. Avid Ti with Race lite wheelset work excellent and so quiet on deep smooth descending route. Fox rear shock with rapid rebound-works smooth and firm in small rock trail.
If your budjet is 3000 ,get it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Campbell
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia, PA
Date Reviewed: January 12, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Strengths: | I love my bike! Light, fast, handles superbly. | | Weaknesses: | Cracked the chainstay and blew out the fork. I'm 6'2 200 pounds of lean, mean mountain biker. Not sure if the bike is sturdy enough. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Superlight | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I'm used to my Trek Fuel 100 which has a longer top tube and a more "stretched out" riding position. I'm 6'2. Any ideas as to how I can remedy this and make the Santa Cruz more ergonomically similiar to the Trek Fuel 100?
But the issue remains....Ergonomics. I'm used to my Trek Fuel 100 which has a longer top tube and a more "stretched out" riding position. I'm 6'2. Any ideas as to how I can remedy this and make the Santa Cruz more ergonomically similiar to the Trek Fuel 100?
Drop me an email at chrismtnbkr@aol.com if you have any ideas.
Thanks!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam Jaffe
a Cross Country Rider
from Scranton, PA
Date Reviewed: January 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | The less traveled one | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Fast, Great Climber, Great Descender, Great handling and control, Great Suspension design, Stiff, Lightweight, Good use of Carbon Fiber, very adjustable fork and shock, GREAT wheelset with ceramic for Great braking (even though its Bonty?) | | Weaknesses: | Bontrager is getting better...but would still like an option. | | Similar Products Used: | GT i-drive, Cannondale Scalpel, Fuel 90 | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock except crank brothers egg Beaters pedals, all XTR soon | | Bottom Line: | This is the fastest bike I have ever ridden. Once properly set up, the suspension is the perfect combination for high speed ascending or descending. There is absolutely no noticable bob, but it comes with a lockout in the front and rear, huh?
It accelerates very quickly, probably because of the super light wheelset. The shock is positioned low on the frame to keep a lower center of gravity to improve handling. The bottom bracket height is lower than usual for the same reason, that is why this is mostly XC specific, though I have seen Freeride and Dual Slalom versions. This bike is so light that you can easily throw it around when riding getting the most out of your much needed energy.
I was going to build up the frame, but the wheels themselves are worth the extra money. The wheels are great.
I get better stopping power than disc brakes because of the ceramic rims, +1 for Bonty. -1 for Trek for shipping it with tubes and not the UST tires. Well its better than having tires that cant hold air.
As for value. I got a great deal and have to say that even if I payed retail it would be worth it. The elite XC bikes can be much more expensive than this, and you still have to swap out some parts. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
A Bike Guy
a Downhiller
from BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: January 7, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Great Frame
Sweet Parts
Amazingly light compared to my other bikes
| | Weaknesses: | unless you win the lottery it's out of range of most normal people | | Similar Products Used: | GT IDrives...about it for xc | | Bike Setup: | Z1 Freeride QR20+, King 20mm front and ISO rear laced to Mavic F219's, wide Easton EA70 bar, Gazzolodi Dual 2.1's, Race Face Next LP ISIS, Hayes Hydro's with 8 and 6 inch rotors, Thomson Elite seatpost and stem | | Bottom Line: | Ok well this was supposed to be my training bike so I'd stay in good shape for my various other sports I participate in but I just couldn't help my freeride roots on the parts spec. I hope the headtube doesn't break but oh well there's always warranty.....Well as for the bike it's awesome. So light and responsive I don't even think it needs a lock out. There's no bob yet it still responds to the little hits. The Sid Race is sweet with the ti stanchions but it's still the wet noodle it's always been. As for everything else it worked great but I just felt the need for stronger stuff that well I like to ride more. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Larry
a Racer
from Loves Park, Ill
Date Reviewed: January 3, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3200.00 | | Purchased At: | Kegel's | | Strengths: | Stiffness for climbing, no bobbing out of saddle, TREK support | | Weaknesses: | cheesy Fox shock, blew out and Fox wouldn't fix or replace, don't need rear lockout | | Similar Products Used: | TREK 9.8 | | Bike Setup: | all XTR crank, brakes, drive,12-27 DA cass,tubeless Hutch Pythons, Easton bar and post, Selle SR saddle | | Bottom Line: | the abosolute bomb on the climbing and singletrack, could ride all day (did many times), tubeless tires were great, lightened to 22 lbs with upgrades, great XC racer on rough terrain, and excellent marathon bike!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Randall
a Racer
from Florida
Date Reviewed: January 2, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | I bought just the frame and added my own components, so this review is more from bikes handling characteristics. I have only spent a few hours on the bike, so am still getting to know its feel and capabilities. So far, the more I ride it the more I like it. Just did a 3 hour ride on it New Year's Day, and felt like doing more. Bike feels very efficient, as if it takes less effort to pedal. Rides smooth, comfortable. I usually suffer from low back pain after riding for a while, but did not have any from this ride, and hope that ends up being the norm.
The biggest improvement I feel over my Y bike is in single track. The Fuel is more snappy and quick. It climbs well, especially on technical terrain, and descends as fast as you want to let it rip. Over all, very pleased with the performance. I just wished it was lighter. I had hopes of building a light weight racer, but it will end up only slightly lighter than my Y bike. Trek claims a frame weight of 4.41 lbs, but actual weight was 5 lbs, 8 oz. This was a large frame, which I expected to be slightly heaver, but not a pound!
Getting the right shock set up is important, as it would be for any bike. But once dialed in, it rocks! | | Weaknesses: | Weight. Bike is heavier that stated by about a pound. | | Similar Products Used: | Y33 | | Bike Setup: | CK head set, Ritchey Pro stem, easton monkey light bar, sram 9.0 shifter and brake lever, avid 7 brakes, Truvativ SL crankes, sram 9.0 front & rear derailuers, XTR cassete and chain, Selle Italia Ti seat, Bontrager race seat post, mavic 517 rims and Chris King hubs. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike, for just cruising the trails, or a xc racer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
todd
a Racer
from ct
Date Reviewed: December 12, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | west hartford resevoir | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | lbd | | Strengths: | light weight, great h20 cage placement, fast descender, awsome climber | | Weaknesses: | $$$$, i did break the seat stay torqing it on a rock in a small fall | | Similar Products Used: | klein, fisher, fsr | | Bike Setup: | mars fork sram 9.0sl mavic crossmax ust egg beaters | | Bottom Line: | this my second fuel, first got stolen (thanks insurance money) i'm 6'5" 200 and this bike is light and durable for my size (25lbs). the broken seat stay was a fluke thing that would have happened on any bike. climbs great and is fast... buy a fuel today.. 4 chillis because of price | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross Country Rider
from Palo Alto
Date Reviewed: November 25, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Bike Setup: | seven duo; xtr; marzocchi x-fly; bontrager race light wheelset; chris king headset | | Bottom Line: | I just wanted to say that anyone making the decision between a 2002 fuel 100 and a 2002 fuel 98 should go with the 100. although it costs $1000 more, you are upgrading to the bontrager race LIGHT wheelset which retails for $800 alone (this is nearly double the cost of the race wheelset) it is also a super light and durable wheelset. You are also getting the rockshox SID fork which is light and great looking (for some this may be too plush, i prefer the marzocchi bomber to anything else). The only drawback to the fuel 100 is the over use of decals which make it look crappy! Overall, its a great ride that is fast as hell and well worth the dough. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Al
a Racer
from Sunny Cheektowaga,NY,USA
Date Reviewed: November 25, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | any racecourse | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | great all-around, light! (for f/s) | | Weaknesses: | stupid bottlecage placement | | Similar Products Used: | Sugar 1 | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR, King/517 wheelset | | Bottom Line: | Super cool! If you are looking for the best f/s racing rig, HERE IT IS! I was tired of getting my ass beat up on my hardtails so I decided to get a Sugar, didn't like it much, went back to a hardtail. Then I got this Fuel 100 and haven't looked back since. I am a big rider, 6'2" 200 lbs, This bike has not let me down! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
art
a Racer
from asheville, nc
Date Reviewed: November 20, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Liberty Bicycles | | Strengths: | Great fit, fine component selection, it is fast, climbs extrordinarily well | | Weaknesses: | no probs yet, but concerned that downtube would easily dent from rocks kicked up. | | Similar Products Used: | Litespeed hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock Fuel 100, except for Manitou Mars CL fork, Cane Creek Wam Titanium wheels, and Sram 8speed drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike more than any I have ever owned. I use it for mostly fast XC riding and occasional racing. It feel light and fast, and locked out it rolls like a hardtail. NO probs at all so far. I am convinced it is among the best money can buy, better than most, definitely on par with the elete of this genre (Ellsworth, Turner, Santa Cruz, Sugar, Intense and Foes), but a much better value than most of these. I especially appreciate the warranty (unlike the boys at MTB Action Mag). I have had long experience with TREK bicycles and they have never failed to take care of any warranty concerns.
I would recommend this bike for any performance oriented rider who appreciates light weight, great climbing, and spirited performance. Any racer or former hardtail rider would love this bike,especially those that favor longer top tubes.
I would not recommend this rig for those seeking long, plush travel, and the ability to be thrashed and crashed among the rocks repeatedly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Eisentraut
a Cross Country Rider
from Middletown, NY
Date Reviewed: November 20, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Yellow Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | Very light, excellent climber, fast through technical downhills. | | Weaknesses: | Tires, XT shifter/brake levers. | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike is excellent. I think I will be purchasing the 98 though. The extra $1000 is hardly worth the two lockouts (F&R) because this bike rides extremely well and I don't think I would ever use the lockouts. The SID shock in the front looks extremely sharp but it seems somewhat flexy (the 98 has the stiffer Duke).
This bike is an all around great bike right out of the box for any racer or XC rider. It is not a downhiller's bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Byron Cancelmo
a Weekend Warrior
from Waterford MI. U.S.A
Date Reviewed: November 16, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Pontiac Lake | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Scarlets of pontiac | | Strengths: | Strength of welds, the use of carbon technology to make the bike stiffer and stronger than any other. Beautiful paint. Amazing attention to detail. 3 bottle mounts. Light! | | Weaknesses: | who knows? | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Y50 Limited, Trek 9900, Trek 9800, Trek Fuel 90, Cannondale SuperV1000, Pro-Flex Animal, Pro-Flex Beast, Klein Mantra Comp. Trek Y-Glide | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR, Bontrager seat post, manitou X-vert 100mm | | Bottom Line: | I am 6'2" 215 pound rider. I feel more at home on the fuel 100 than any other I own. I'm willing to take on technical challenges. I am a big fan of Trek products. This bicycle company seems to have what it takes to please the masses. They back their lifetime warranties on frames which is why I have the new Fuel 100. My 1993 9900 frame had a hairline crack by the head tube. I had a choice the 9.8 or the 100. Lucky me! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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