Fully independent cross country suspension at a hardtail weight. Alpha SLR aluminum in a Pro Race geometry.
Rolf Satellite is a paired spoke design that's strong and light. An optional disc brake package, with Hayes Hydraulic disc brakes and Rolf Dolomite wheels, adds superior stopping power in slop or steep descents.
Manitou SX R fork (80mm travel) Fox Float rear air shock (up to 3" of rear wheel travel) are dialed for XC racing.
Bontrager Comp crank and Shimano LX/XT 9-speed shifting.
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 17, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2115.00
Purchased At:
Earl's Cycle / went out of business 2003
Strengths:
Excellent looking bike design, entry level full suspension in pro category, full hydro disk brakes, disk wheels, 24 spokes only!
Weaknesses:
The rear Rolf Dolomite Disk rim has cracks at 3 different nipples (I was told that the "small" sized frame is meant for a rider that is at most 5'6" & 170lbs and I'm currently 5'7" & 210lbs).
Similar Products Used:
1996 GT Ricochet - stock and then updated with numerous parts from 1996 to 2001 (I still have this bike and use it when my Trek is in the shop).
Bike Setup:
2001 Trek Fuel 90 Disk (stock + updated + added parts) - seatpost, grips, tires, tubes, brake pads, computer, air horn, head & tail lights and now a new rear wheel.
Bottom Line:
UPDATE: This is an update on my 7/22/2005 review. I still own and ride this bike... 1 - I've had to replace the rear wheel on 2/16/2007. I replaced it with a Sun Rhyno Lite (Black/32H) rim, Shimano Deore XT disk (Black/FH-M756) hub, DT Swiss Champion (Black/2.0mm) spokes, Silver nipples from www.bikecanada.com. 2 - I had the original seals (2001) on the Fox Float rear shock replaced. Air loss was up to -10psi over a month. It was the ONLY cause of my bikes creaking/cracking/squeaking sound noticed since June 2005. I was very lucky that a cheap $20 item solved my problem as I have read other online owners complaining of noises relating to - cracked frames, damaged bottom brackets and having to replace crankarms & chain wheels. The majority of the repairs & upgrades to my house were completed in 2006, I'll have a lot more time to cycle in 2007. The BLT Metrino 15 night light system that came with the rear wheel that I received on 2/16/2007 now won't limit me to day-time only riding as in 2006. Bottom Line: The BEST BIKE for the $$$ I've ever had!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: November 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Amasa Back
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Shopee
Strengths:
Good geometry. Warrenty works. Runs great after a tune up. Little suspension bob. Climbs good for a full-suspension.
Weaknesses:
Chain suck. Frame creak. Crack at the seatpost. Overall lose feel in the controls. Frame sometimes feels flexy. Bontrager crap. Roff wheels too weak, breaking spokes.
Similar Products Used:
Klein Attiude
Bike Setup:
Replaced cranks with LX. Upgraded to XT shifters. Upgraded to Marzocchi Marathon XC.
Bottom Line:
I bought the bike new, and right away experienced the chain suck. I took it back, and the local bike shope said to put on new cranks. That didn't work. It would shift good for 2 or 3 rides after tune ups. Sometimes it was so bad the chain would get stuck between the frame and cranks. I broke the chain in a fit of rage trying to get it unstuck.
Then it started to creak. I took the bike from shop to shop trying to fix the problem. They couldn't figure it out and I kept spending money on tune ups.
Finally the frame cracked at the seatpost. The shop I bought the bike from had me thinking Trek wouldn't replace the frame, so I went to another shop. They said Trek would have to decide if it was under warrenty. They called back and said I would get a new frame in a week or so but I would have to pay to have the bike rebuilt. I also picked up a new fork and head set from Jenson online. When I picked up my bike I was bummed. Trek only replaced the main part of the frame. They didn't give me a new linkage or rear-end. The new main frame was black with a big Trek sticker and headtube logo. Nothing else. Now the bike looks funny and will be harder to sell because the rear end is old and the front is new. I would have been happier with a whole frame replacement. I also had to pay $100 for the rebuild and shock instation. Trek should have paid for the rebuild, not me.
This will be the last Trek I buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: July 22, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2115.00
Purchased At:
Earl's Cycle / went out of business 2003
Strengths:
Excellent looking bike design, entry level full suspension in pro category, full hydro disk brakes, disk wheels, 24 spokes only!
Weaknesses:
The rear Rolf Dolomite Disk rim has cracks at 3 different nipples. 2 small, 2 med. 2 large in length. The large crack runs from the center of the rim to the edge then parallel to it in an "L" shape.
Similar Products Used:
1996 GT Ricochet - stock and then updated with numerous parts from 1996 to 2001.
Bike Setup:
2001 Trek Fuel 90 Disk - stock and then updated seatpost, grips, tires, tubes. Added a computer, horn and lights.
Bottom Line:
I still own and ride this bike. I'm 5'7" and weigh 190lbs. I picked up the bike and rode it home right after I had dropped off my luggage after returning from a 16 day trip to Florida where I rode my 1996 GT Ricochet. I found the stock seatpost (30cm long) as being 5cm's too short as I rode the bike home with the seatpost at max. height. Within a week I had it replaced with a Bontrager 45cm long version (for an extra $50/CAN as the shop would not let me swap it with the stock 1 for free). At the same time I switched out the knobby Bontrager Jones 26"x2.0" tires at 60psi for Michelin Wild Gripper City 26"x1.5" tires at 80psi. Then the Cheng Shen or Norco tubes of 26"x1.75-2.125" to Bontrager Narrow Super Light 26"x1.25-1.75" tubes. I had Kevlar/Spin Skins inserted until they crumbled and caused a flat in 2004, I now use SLIME. I've fallen off the bike 4x from Oct.15,2003 to June 30,2005. The 1st after clipping a pedestrian at night, I came off and only the left grip ripped. 2nd was after I was trying to go left and the front wheel hit and ran parallel to the sidewalk, but I went down holding on. 3rd was on an elevated wooden bridge, I thought it was the moonlight but no - it was frost. Again I was going to the left but the bike went straight with me still holding on. The 4th and final one was on June 30,2005. the day before CANADA DAY. The city, after waiting 6 months opted to fill in washed away asphalt with loose gravel. I fell on my left side again and still holding on. I had been out on the exact route during the day (with no gravel), so it caught me off-guard, but the bike still held-up! The wheels have never had to be trued. This past March 2005, I had the shifter cables re-tensioned. This past May-June (5 1/2weeks) it was out of action, the right Hayes hydro brake began to leak even after re-building it 3x. A mix-up with the back-up parts ordering guy cost most of the time loss. My bike too has developed a creaking sound by the cranks/bb area. I loosened, cleaned, tightend allen bolts and even used WD-40 but it only quieted the sound (by 30%) temporarily. Bottom Line: The BEST BIKE for the $$$ I've ever had!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta Date Reviewed: May 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Bull Mountain
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1490.00
Purchased At:
MTBR
Strengths:
Very smooth ridding bike. Pedals well with little suspension bob. Hayes Hyros are tremendous. Dolomite wheels are strong as nails; albiet a bit on the heavy side.
Weaknesses:
I have replaced all of the Bontrager parts. The cranks were replaced within the first month to help with the notorious chainsuck. Still has chainsuck even with new cables, chain, and rings. Also has the characteristic frame creak. Manitou fork blown twice.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Fuel 90, Hayes Disks, Easton Monkelites Low riser, King Headset, Thompson Stem and Seatpost,All XT drivetrain, Panaracer Fire,
Bottom Line:
I have waited quite a long time to write my review on this bike. I am a bit of a Trek loyalist but I have to admit the first year of this bike was not too great. The bike has dramatically improved my riding (when it is working well) but some of the quirks with the first model year have taken a good bit of the fun out of it. For the most part, I have upgraded everything on the bike except the frame, shock, wheels and fork (it should be). My local trek dealer has been very unhelpful.
I am not an agressive rider but do ride 4-5 times a week. If I where considering a new bike (next year), I would look at the newer fuel models but would also consider Specialized, Elsworth, and Santa Cruz
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tomas
a Weekend Warrior
from Prague, CZE Date Reviewed: December 29, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Strengths:
Just a great bike. It has perfect riding qualities in both descends and climbs. Perfect relation between value and price paid. And last but not least - cool design (esp. black frame w. white Psylo).
Weaknesses:
Only 76mm (3") of rear travel :-(((, although it feels like longer travel.
Bike Setup:
Psylo SL U-Turn, Fox Float, hayes hydro, XT/LX, rolf dolomite disc, bontrager stuff
Bottom Line:
It is my first FS bike and I still love it. Manitou SXR was a bit too hard for me so I've changed it for Psylo and now I can ride nearly everywhere without having my hands and butt bruised. Perfect choice for people who just don't want to make huge drops, but like to have comfortable bike with good parts for a reasonable price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a Racer
from Dillsburg, PA, USA Date Reviewed: December 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
If I told you I'd have to kill you
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Holmes Cycling and Fitness
Strengths:
Excellent suspension design. Virtually eliminates bounce on uphill riding.
Weaknesses:
Chain suck problems. Poor front suspension. Break levers are wearing out, and fast.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain Element
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
It's a good value for what I paid, and it's been a great first bike for me to start racing on. I wouldn't suggest buying it if you are considering superiorly progressing at racing. But if you are looking for a fun and awesome bike to start out on and learn on, go for the FUEL. They for the most part rock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cliff Cooper
a Weekend Warrior
from Indnpls. IN Date Reviewed: November 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
green river state park kentucky
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Garage Indy
Strengths:
As soon as you get on this bike you feel faster. Its very fast on singletrack. Climbs very well. Decends excellent for a bike with 3 inches of travel. Very comfortable.
Weaknesses:
the suspension bobs pretty badly when climbing in the bigring, The frame flexs alittle, comes with fox float the only problem I have with the bontrager parts is the chainrings wear quickly
Similar Products Used:
bullit,nrs 2, trek fuel 80(wich I still own and love,great buy),trek 4300
Bike Setup:
hayes hydrolic discs, rolf dolomite disk, rolf hubs, xt, lx derailiers, Fox RLC 100mm fork
Bottom Line:
this is a great bike. I have no regets from buying this bike. This is the best sport I have ever tryed.I really dont have anything to say but I love this bike and I would spending money on trek products they have allways been good to me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mr Hammer
a Cross Country Rider
from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Date Reviewed: September 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Olympia Cycle and Ski
Strengths:
I purchased ONLY the Frame, and built it up from my exisiting parts.
Great suspension system - feels great, hammers almost like a hard tail. Reasonable weight, and looks great! I went for the '01 for the Matte Black Paint job... Geometry was perfect for me. Fast on the flats, climbs very well, and is smooth on the bumps - what else could you ask for?
Weaknesses:
The rear shock - replace it with something a bit higher end (Float RL/RC). The stock Float can be a bit of a pogo stick at times I find, but otherwise works extremely well on the trails.
Tends to be a bit more lateral frame flex than I would like, but nothing unusual by any stretch - I'm used to riding a 95 Klein Attitude which is insanely stiff. I've noticed the frame flex (and slight suspension bob) to really soak up some serious pedalling energy at times - usually hammering on the road, but I don't think it's anything unusual for this type of a frame. I suspect on the '02 with the ZR9000 Aluminum, there may be a reduction in frame flex.
Clearance between chain rings and the chain stays can be a problem if you run standard size rings... because of how the rear swing-arm is welded, the spacing between the middle ring and chainstay is very tight (to the point where throwing the chain can do some big-time damage to your chain stay). But, I run a rather large middle ring, so I imagine a smaller ring (and for sure compact drive) will fix that.
Similar Products Used:
Klein Attitude, Rocky Element.
Bike Setup:
2000 Bomber Atom 80, XTR Brakes and Levers, XT Shifters, XT/LX Deraileurs, Mavic 517's with XTR/Syncros Hubs, Easton Monkey Lite Bar, Thomson Stem, Race Face Cranks, Race Face Seat Post.
Bottom Line:
Overall I'm extremely happy with this bike. This is my first serious venture into the XC full suspension market, and I'm very pleased. What sold me on the Trek was the similar geometry to my Klein, the killer badd-ass black paint, and the price. Not to mention, it's a BLAST to ride! The feel overall, is very nice - small bumps are almost completely gone, big hits are soaked up nicely -- but as mentioned, a better rear shock (lock would have come in handy a time or two this year) is in order I think.
If I were buying from scratch, I would certianly save my pennis and go for the 98 - some of the stock Bontrager parts are pretty crappy (even throughout the entire line). If you can afford it, buy a frame and build it the way you want.
If you're a fairly active recreational rider, this is a fantastic bike. Even as a serious racing platform I can see it working extremely well... with some (major) stock upgrades mind you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Anderson
a Cross Country Rider
from Papillion, NE USA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Swanson Park, Platte River State Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Rack
Strengths:
Climbs like a mountain goat, scary fast flat out
Weaknesses:
Bontrager chain rings, XL frame broke (replaced), stock wheels braking surface seems weak, the single bolt seatpost was worthless-replaced with Raceface
Similar Products Used:
Old rigid frame
Bike Setup:
Stock except XTR cranks and front derailleur, Hugi 240 hubs and Sun Rhyno lite rims, Raceface XY seatpost
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. I am 6'4" 215 pounds. The frame cracked in two places like many of the other XL frames. It was replaced and rebuilt by my LBS in less than two weeks. Great service Trek and Bike Rack!
This bike is very fast. I can keep up with guys on road bikes for a few miles if I really try. There is just no wasted motion with pedal bob if you pedal smoothly. Even if you mash it up hills, you just don't feel much bob at all.
I am still trying to figure out what stem I need to get fit correctly to the bike. I am a little tall for the current set up and find that my arms and hands get numb after about 1.5 hours of riding. I don't have the problem when I lower the seat down a little but then I don't get the same leg extension.
I loved the fork when I first got the bike (Manitou SX-R). I did change the spring out to the stiffest one they make. I am starting to think it is a little too soft for my weight but it is still OK. It soaks up big bumps really well but is a little squirly on fast, bumpy downhill. I used the Fox tuning manual to set up the fork but maybe it still just needs some tuning. It is quite adjustable. If I had $500 to blow, I would put a Fox fork on it. I will live with this one for a few more years anyway.
The only real problem I had with the bike was the front chainrings. I thought that they just did not shift well at all. I had the bike tuned up a couple of times at the LBS and it would shift fine on the stand but just stunk when I was on the bike. I put on the 180mm XTR crankset with an XTR front derailleur and now it shifts flawlessly. I find that I actually use all three front gears now. I can heartily recommend this combination.
I have two wheelsets now. The Rolf Satellites are plenty strong. I ran flat on, straight into a tree once and did not knock the wheel out of true at all. I could not believe it. I had a few pretty spectacular wrecks last season and did no damage at all to the wheels. Anyway, I left the Bontrager Jones AC's on those wheels and use them for paved trail and crushed limestone riding. Those tires are awesome for hardpack and trail riding. I do not understand why they get bashed so badly by everyone on this site. They do pack up in mud, but so do most tires. They are fantastically fast. My other wheelset is Hugi 240's with Sun Rhynolite rims. These are my offroad wheelset with Panaracer FireXC Pro's. They are a little heavier but are very stiff. The tires are much better for general offroad riding. Don't get me wrong, the Jones AC's are fine on hardpack and damp surface dirt. They just aren't much good when it is wet, sandy or muddy. The Fire XC Pros are much better for those conditions. They suck on paved trails and make an incredible amount of noise. Run the air pressure pretty high and you still get excellent traction.
I guess this is a pretty long bottom line.
In the end, I can tell you that for me - 6'4" 215 pounds, this bike rocks. It is not made for beating hard on. Get a Liquid Fuel, a Jekyll or something heavier duty for that. This is a race bike. It climbs very well and is really fast. It corners well but not as well as smaller bikes. My friends can pull away from me in the winding sections of track but I can always catch up on the uphills and flat sections. I think when I finish fitting myself properly to the bike, it will corner better also. I don't think you can go wrong with this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from CT Date Reviewed: August 12, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1563.00
Purchased At:
some shop in bethal
Strengths:
Good parts, Good value. Manitu black shocks!!!
Weaknesses:
Cheap stickers on front shocks
Bike Setup:
Full suspension
Bottom Line:
When I was looking for I new bike I couldn'y decide which one to choose. But after reading some reviews for the Fuel 90. I decided to try it out. Best bike I tried out. Bought it a week later.This is what i think of the bike: Excellent off road bike. Very light frame. Best I've ever owned. Could be a bit pricey for the average biker. It could have better shimano parts though. And this bike isn't geared for young kids. I recommend this bike for the beging mountain bike enthusiast. But if you look at the big picture, this bike beats a lot of bikes in part qualtiy and price. In short, you can't go wrong with this execellent bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wouter Verburg
a Cross Country Rider
from Den Dolder Date Reviewed: August 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Houffalize
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop
Strengths:
Light Weight, swift handling, full suspension with a hardtail feel.
Weaknesses:
Frame design issues
Similar Products Used:
Giant ATX 950
Bike Setup:
XT disks, SID sl, full XT, Fox float RC
Bottom Line:
Bought a Fuel 90 disc and modified it completely to suit my liking, changed the disc brakes, other fork and changed some minor components.
Just love the bike, goes like the wind uphill and downhill. Had some problems with chainsuck and changed the 'granny ring' to an aluminium version - no problems since. Had a strange squeaky noise from the saddle down and found after 9 months of riding that the bottom tube had broken just above the rocker link mount. The local bike shop called Trek and within one week I had my new frame waiting for me (Fuel 98 2002 including OCLV rear fork) under warranty. Rebuild the bike and did a complete yearly overhaul. Have been riding it for one month now and the squeaky noise is back. Frame detorioration is showing in exactly the same spot. If the TREK Fuel product manager reads these reviews: guys, I think you need to do some work on this frame design. I am not over 200 pounds (only 80 kgs), don't do drop offs or hard riding, I am a XC guy, haven't done any Houffalize trips yet with the new frame and still it is already breaking under my ....
On a technical level much can be improved on the frame engineering design. Take Giant NRS for example: they knew the frame construction was not strong enough welding thin walled aluminium and exposing it to frequency loading. They added a bracket to the seat post to at least make sure all the forces of the suspension system are balanced out.
Tomorrow I am going to check with the Local Bike Shop and ask them to set up a meeting with the technical guys from Trek. See what comes out of that. But, still the bike goes like a dream and is fun to ride.
Explanation with ratings: Trek has got an excellent concept with the Fuel XC FS, just too bad the one downside is in the frame design. If they haven't changed it within one year from today, they will be rated again because their marketing and feedback from the 'voice of the customer' is lousy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Karl
a Cross Country Rider
from Petaluma, CA, USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
Nice stable ride, fairly light with the right components.
XT/LX, King hubs, Hayes disk on front, XTR V-brake on rear, Pyslo Race fork, etc, etc.
Bottom Line:
I purchased the 90 Disk model. Over the 10 months I've owned this bike, I got rid of most of the Bontrager anchors. It was 29 lb when I got it (size large), 26.5 after the upgrades. My first problem was a creaking noise in the seat post area. After several tries myself, and a few trips to the bike shop, it went away on it's own. After that I suffered through the rear brake noise problem, which was only solved by the hokey brace Trek made to solve the problem. Strangely enough, all the bikes the shop I go to that were converted to disk never had this trouble. None of them used Hayes, so it must be a combo of the Hayes brake and Trek disk mount. I even upgraded to the carbon rear end. I finally just put V-brakes in back.
The rear suspension seems to only work well on medium to large hits. The preloaded pivot bushings have a substantial amount of friction. However, their design is light and easy to maintain.
The final straw with this bike occured when I got to borrow a Scalpel for a 3 hr ride. I liked it so much better than the Fuel, that I ordered one. In the week I was waiting for my new bike, the Fuel frame cracked just in front of the top-to-seat tube weld. My first broken frame in 12 years of mt biking. I had the seat post inserted at least 2" beyond the min line, and don't do jumps or big drops. When I get the warrantee replacement, the bike will be sold.
While I liked the bike overall, I've never had so many problems with a bike before. The Y11 I rode for 5 years before getting the Fuel was trouble free.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Salice
a Cross Country Rider
from Nottingham Date Reviewed: June 4, 2002
switched all stock to XT/XTR, LX cranks, bontrager wheels, ritchey tires, selle italia flite, answer stem/bars, thompson post, avid levers
Bottom Line:
Great ride! Although the weaknesses were enough to warrant me getting a new frame. The stock parts were ok 0- sufficient, but I had better parts from my previous bike so I switched em out. Also, there was a fair amount of bob but maybe I didn't have the air pressure in the shock high enough. My new frame has a sid shock with adjustable rebound dampening which is very cool. The low bottom bracket was annoying as was the incessant creak that I couldn't seem to locate/eliminate. Overall I think this was a great bike but I'm happier with my new one. No frame cracks or anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PabloCruiseControl
a Cross Country Rider
from TN Date Reviewed: May 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any and/or/all
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1280.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
pr't near most everythang....handling, suspension, looks, reasonable weight
Weaknesses:
some tradeoffs involved to bring bike in at pricepoint, but nothing can't live with until wears out
Similar Products Used:
Trek whY-bikes , C-dale SuperVee's, Klein Mantra
Bike Setup:
basicalluy stock, replaced tires with Panaracers
Bottom Line:
absolutely love it - great "first timer" fs bike (coming from rigid/hardtail background) - kinda a "in-betweeny" feel - not too plush, but far from rigid - just what I always wanted :) No problems to speak of (minor "chainsuck" when new, but has gone away) - and so far, no hint of frame/weld failure - kinda a nice thang that Trek has lifetime frame warranty :) Ride it and like it !!! Great XC rig - DH/FR need not apply....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
K-Man
a Cross Country Rider
from PA Date Reviewed: May 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Ridge, York PA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Shirks Bike Shop
Strengths:
Great value, good components, good on the climbs with little bounce for a dually, feels great on the decents.
Weaknesses:
The front shock and the wheels, tires, and brakes. The fork is a weak link because it is not plush, and gets noticably harder and un-even toward on the way down. The wheels are easily untrued, and i only weigh 165 and am not a abusive rider. The tires are good in dry conditions, but in the rain you mine as well use slicks. While the brakes do not lock up, they also do not stop on a dime, more like a half dollar.
Similar Products Used:
sugar 3
Bike Setup:
stock, except for a ritchey stem which is longer and has a smaller rise
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for the price. Besides having a few couple of quarks, this bike is sweet!! If your looking for a great cross country bike with a fantastic price, you found your ride. The weaknesses are minimal, and I am just being very picky.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin
a Cross Country Rider
from Connecticut. Date Reviewed: April 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
You name it...
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
rather not say...
Strengths:
Climbs well, snappy fast through trees, and switch backs. Looks mean.
Weaknesses:
Frame built poorly. Bontrager=Crap! cranks feel like rubber.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro, Specialized Stumpjumper,Sugar 3+, bmx bike.
Bike Setup:
mostly stock except for syncros risers and IRC Backcountry tires.
Bottom Line:
Well... what can I say, what do you say about a bike that lets you down? A bike that the frame snaps in half when your 1 1/2hr deep into the woods. Pissed off! I heard the warning about this bike breaking, though to myself..."naw, not my bike", well it did. Right on the top tube where it meets the seatpost tube before the weld. I got out of the woods with zip ties and a sore back.
If you got $ to throw away, go ahead she's fun but she's cheap and she wont last.
In conclusion, proceed at your own risk with this time bomb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jude
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Victor Falls, Tapeworm
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Rebound Cycles, Canmore Alberta
Strengths:
- solid XC design - climbs like a champ - Hayes brakes rock
Weaknesses:
- Trek has no soul, let's be honest - Chainsuck, minor front d'rler problems - poor tire choice
I really love this bike, despite some narrow-minded gear choices. I added more suspension upfront, but that was completely excessive. Adding hydraulic brakes on the front was a good choice, not missed them in the back. My next bike will be something a little funkier and from a company less sold on their own sub-components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dalton
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: March 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
The one I did today
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Soooo smooooth....just sooo smooooth. Makes me smile just thinking about how this bike feels when Im hauling a little ass. Also, best seat my ass has ever hit.
Weaknesses:
Crank setup....and thats it.
Similar Products Used:
Tried every comparable FS bike last June to find what I want.
Bike Setup:
Totally stock...except for the Time pedals. Every other pedal out there is trash as long as Time is making pedals.
Bottom Line:
I cant describe how much I am impressed by this bike. The geometry is a little strange, Im still working out the steep climbs...but thats my issue, not the bikes. No cracks, squeaks, or snaps (knock on wood) yet. Im not the fastest climber, but I really push it on the downhills...performs much better than I expected from an XC bike.
Only drawback is the crackset. It needs to be switched...I had some issues with chainsuck when I first got the bike. This problem has not been fixed, I just have learned how/when to switch to the granny gear to keep this from happening. I will replace the cranks and rings this season.
Alos, kill the shimano pedals. If you ride in any conditions other than dry pavement, Time is the only way to go.
Bottom line, buy the bike if you want to spend $13-1700 on a XC FS bike. Noone makes a better one.
Can I give this more than 5 Flamers??
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne, Vic, Australia Date Reviewed: March 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anything with dirt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
Australin Dollars
Strengths:
Great Ride, smooth, fast and confidence inspiring. Great wheelset and suspension. Geometry and design. Looked great!!
Weaknesses:
Bontrager Everything (Yes again !!), V-Brakes could be better. Creaking seat tube and crank. The crack in the seat tube !!
Similar Products Used:
Specialised FSR, Giant, Gary Fisher Sugar, Cannondale Scalpel (Demo).
Bike Setup:
Upgarde rear shock unit to Fox Float RC (Lock-out), Easton EA 70 awaiting to be fitted. Will be upgarding to XT drivetrain and XT V-Brakes, removing anything else that says Bontrager.
Bottom Line:
Well, a bit of a saga. Purchased the bike in about September '01, after much research and contemplation. Everything had been fine on the bike til about 2 weeks ago. Yes, my greatest fears with a bike like this, a cracked frame. I had only been riding the bike to-and-from work in the city since christmas, probably had taken it off-road on 1-2 occasions at the most. I weigh approx 75 kilograms (sorry, not sure in pounds). Anyway, i noticed a crack on the weld that holds the rocker-link to the seat tube, was not too happy about this occuring, as i use the bike on a daily basis. So, took the bike back to the LBS and they said "no worries, thats under warranty". About a week later, after speaking with LBS everyday, Trek's Warranty Dept. said, "Yep, we'll replace the frame, but only the damaged front triangle and not the rear swing-arm and shock", Mmmmmmmmmm !! But, this will take about 4 WEEKS to come from the USA and will be a 2001 frame and probably not the black one i originally purchased. After reading most of the reviews on the '01 Trek Fuel 90 , i noticed there was a fairly high frequency of cracked/broken frames, especially in this area of the frame. Therefore, i directed my LBS to this site for the reviews seen here. I suggested to them that 4 weeks was unacceptable and that i had issues with getting a 2001 frame again. As some reviews on the 2001 and 2002 Fuels suggest that Trek have made some slight frame modifications to alleviate these probs mentioned throughout the reviews posted here on the 2002 model. They got back to the Warranty dept for me, who then agreed to strip and send down a 2002 Fuel 90, but only the front triangle and put my black swing-arm on it and shock. Mmmmmm, again !! As this would not cosmetically suit the bike, i didn't spend this kind of money on a bike to end up with bits and pieces. So, now i have asked what are the options of upgarding to a 2002 Fuel 98 or 100. At least on these two 2002 models, my 2001 black swing-arm would (hopefully) not look out of place. Am currently waiting to hear back from them. We'll see how things go !! Just wondering if anybody else has been put in this situation. Would really like to know what some of you people out there think about all this. Please do not hesitate to let me know. Thanx :-)
Value rating is for the bike. Overall rating is for Trek.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vince
a Cross Country Rider
from Dale, IN Date Reviewed: February 15, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
BGI Indy
Strengths:
Great all around bike. Very smooth bike. Love the Hayes hyd. brakes. Light bike. Rigid rear end. Rolf wheel set is very nice. Like the seat.
Weaknesses:
Not as much travel as I want. A little more money than I wanted to spend.
Similar Products Used:
Tested a Gary Fishcer Suger, Cannondale Jekyl, Cannondale Raven.
Bike Setup:
Hayes hyd., Shimano XT, Rolf Dolamite wheel set, Manitou front shock with Fox rear.
Bottom Line:
Great all around bike the best cross country bike I have ever road.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Angelo Sandei
a Cross Country Rider
from Galzignano Terme, Padova, Italy Date Reviewed: January 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
up and down hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
Aerelli Bike - Torreglia
Strengths:
A beatiful frame extendable for down hill racing, Lovely frontal Head Shock
Weaknesses:
Had a problem with left pedal. Replaced still getting a squeaking sound need getting fixed. Brakes worn out after only 250 miles, using original Cannondale parts is quite expensive
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Jekill 900 SL, Mavic, Shimano Deore LX and TX, Cane creek, FoxShock rear, Ritchey,
Bottom Line:
Living in a beautiful area "Colli Euganei" 35 miles west of Venice I'm having fun riding up and down a beautiful hilly area. Being enjoying Autumn and Winter snow riding. Fall several times, got slightly scratched on the forehead falling into bushes. A warrior scratch. Bike black coloured is really mean. Ritchey tyres performing well, back Fox shock fantastic, you ride downhill and you feel smooth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, Az Date Reviewed: December 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
50 Year Trial
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
R & R Bicycle
Strengths:
Sweet frame and good selection of components
Weaknesses:
None encountered
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Fs A1 Comp
Bike Setup:
2001 SID XC, Hayes Disc Brakes, everything else is standard
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. It was a demo, which came with the SID and disc brakes. Once on this bike, you feel like you can do anything. Its fast, responsive and ready to do more and more. One test ride and you'll fall in love. I had this bike 3 weeks and I cant get off of it!! I love it so much. Such a good combination of parts and a great value. Trek has hit a homerun with this bike!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Chappaqua, New York Date Reviewed: December 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
technical single track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1399.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
frame performance
Weaknesses:
Bontrager parts, specifically chain rings and seat post
Bike Setup:
Standard V-brakes, upgraded Bontrager chain rings and seat post
Bottom Line:
I have ridden this bike almost daily for the last ten months on rough, technical single track. Every day, my riding buddies and I jump dozens of logs, ride through rock gardens and streams, basically beating the *&%$ out of our equipment, and I have to say that overall, this bike has been great for me. I ride much better than I did on my old hard tail. The bike climbs well, and I love the full suspension on the bumpy downhills. Given the hundreds of hours of hard riding that I have put in, plus the crashes I have subjected the bike to, I have experienced a few of the problems mentioned by other reviewers. My frame developed an annoying creak in the seat tube after a crash, but my LBS fixed it easily by putting some heavy oil into the seat tube and inverting the bike overnight...problem easily resolved. After many months, the four bar linkage required some tweaking and tightening, but again it has held up well under great abuse. I have been happy with both front and rear stock shocks, and the V-brakes work great except in the very worst of snow or heavy March mud. Early on, I bent the large chain ring, and then upgraded to the best Bontrager ring, with no further problems despite riding over rocks and logs with the large chain ring daily. This ring is very strong, unlike the stock chain ring. A few months later, I bent the middle chain ring and likewise had to replace it. Originally, the stock drivetrain would not hold the lowest gear in the middle chain ring, but the drivetrain works very nicely now with the upgraded chain rings, holding all gears well and shifting well. The tires have good traction, except in very sticky, gooey mud. I stripped the ridges on top of the seat post and replaced it with one with a double screw adjustment for seat angle, a big improvement. I did replace the rear derailleur with XTR, after I broke the original by picking up a branch and snapping it off. In sum, I have had to replace a bunch of parts, but given the abuse I give my bike while having a blast on the trails, I love this bike. I feel I got a very good value for the price that I paid. Any cross country rider who is looking for a good value FS bike should consider the Fuel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston, Tx Date Reviewed: December 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Hill Ranch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Spring Valley Bikes
Strengths:
frame, geometry, engineering
Weaknesses:
bontrager parts. the major bontrager parts left the shop in a box. I replaced the cranks, bb, headset and fork with my own parts.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Genesis hardtail. demo'd a sugar. nice bike, too expensive.
Bike Setup:
SID XC, King headset, complete XT drivetrain, xt/517 wheels. Time pedals are the ONLY way to go.
Bottom Line:
This is a preliminary review. I'll come back in after a few months of riding or maybe a season of racing.
Great bike. Um, well, good bike - Great platform to build on. I'm also a HT convert. This bike climbs just like my fisher genesis hartail but makes the downhills WAY more fun. I have had this bike for only a few weeks now but it's made the biggest difference in my riding. It makes those picky technical sections a lot less troublesome. For the longest time I was suspicious of full suspension bikes. I used to ride bmx in my younger days and full suspension seemed like over-kill but the Fuel has convinced me that I can have you cake and eat it too.
I mention that it's a great platform b/c the parts spec was a tad weak. But you can't expect XTR for $1500 retail full suspension bikes. I like the XT rear and the sram 7.0 cassette but I'm not a fan of anything Bontrager builds except wheels which are nice. but the cranks I don't care for. The Manitou SX-R is supposed to be a nice fork but I think the SID XC trumps it though. The rolf satellite wheels are an interesting choice for this bike. From all acounts they are good strong wheels but I think they're probably race day only wheels. I'll ride my bullet proof xt-517's for everyday riding. Over all the bike I bought and the bike I ended up with are really two completely different bikes but the frame is a great starting point. 5 flaming dookies for value b/c you can't stral a better bike for the money (does that even make sense?) 4 flaming dookies for overall b/c I would rather not have a handfull of the stock compenents.
Later!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie
a
from Gainesville, FL USA Date Reviewed: November 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
online -frame only
Strengths:
the frame
Weaknesses:
none - since I only purchased the frame
Bike Setup:
race face next cranks, xtr, time pedals, upgraded to Float RC, 517 wheels with xt hubs, chris king headset, thomson seat post, specialized team master and control tires, avid V-brakes
Bottom Line:
This bike is blast. I am HT convert. At first, I was a little disappointed with the bike, but that was because I missed the crisp feel of my HT. Now, I love this bike and I do not miss the rattling of my HT. I have not dealt with the normal set of probelms associated with the bike (see below), because I only bought the frame and rear shock. I wanted the Fuel 90 as opposed to the 98 or 100, because I was nervous of the carbon seatstays (as it was its first year out). And the black is so cool. I have had no probelms with the frame and built the bike up the way I wanted. I recommend the frame to anyone looking. I would recommend upgrading the rear shock though to at least the Float R (rebound control helps a lot). If you can get the RC, I rarely use the lock-out, but I like the option and I do use it. Off to ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from midwest USA Date Reviewed: November 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
where it's at
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
geometry, ride, looks...
Weaknesses:
none found yet...am keeping eye on frame welds, as per "frame failure" noted in previous reviews...
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y , Cannondale Super-V, Klein Mantra
Bike Setup:
stock plus shorty barends
Bottom Line:
xcellent xc bike...don't buy it if yer into bike abuse, as it ain't a free ride/downhill bike...it's a xc bike !!! Fuel 90 rocks if used as intended.... I love it...will upgrade as parts wear/break, and if frame breaks, so what ?? it'll be replaced under warranty :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Brakeville
a Cross Country Rider
from Burlington Ia Date Reviewed: November 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Sugar bottom
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
Add this update to my first review, the rear derailure cable stay basically fell off the swing arm of my 90. I could not even see any signs off weld penetration from the spot where the stay came from. Trek honored the warranty and for $100 more I replaced the whole rear triangle with the OCLV carbon version from a 2002 fuel 98, ( colors match perfectly). I'll keep those who are curious informed as to how THIS particular set-up works, other than the three weeks I had to WAIT for Trek to send replacement parts, I still feel "for the money" this is THE bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Seth
a Weekend Warrior
from Bay Area California Date Reviewed: November 16, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Sharp Bikes
Strengths:
Great brakes, drive train and paint.
Weaknesses:
Bad brake and frame. Together they squeal like @#$%%.
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
I took the bike back after I e-mailed Hayes (brakes) after I could not stand the squeal. Was told by Hayes that some bike/brake combinations are a bad match (has to do with the rear suspension)...guess which bike is on that "squeal" list. I guess it's once again the consumer the one who makes all the "discoveries" Thank goodness after showing the paper trail (e-mails) to my bike dealer he let me exchanges bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Hunter
a Cross Country Rider
from Wa State Date Reviewed: November 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
not just one!
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
I will likely buy this or the Klein Adept comp. After reading the reviews briefly I clicked out discusted with the opinions. Then I looked over the value for the dollar and thought I would read all the reviews to see just exactly what was going on with them. I was curious why it was only a 4.06 rating but well over 100 people reviewd this bike. That is 6X the average reviews here. I made a tally sheet to put some totals with the problems.
Weaknesses:
Doing this cleared up quite a bit for me. I now have a better overall view of what is going on here.
Similar Products Used:
Non suspension bike
Bike Setup:
2002 stock disk
Bottom Line:
Ok first there are 106 reviews but there are quite a few unrelated and just banter between different people. some are also multiple reviews or double posts. There are actually only 81 with an opnion. the following are the list of broken or problem parts from those 81 functional posts:
Bent chain rings: 10 broken frame:9 broken or problem crank:9 seat problem:1 Broken chain:4 Brake noise:18 Frame noise:17 tires:16 seatpost:3 rear shock:3 front fork:3
Of the 81 functional reviews there were 9 who did not like the bike at all and would not buy it again or recommend it. It's safe to say they hated it completely. There were 72 reviews of the 81 who liked it enough to say so without question.
Of the 9 who did not like the Fuel 90, the 2002 Brake solution, the new standard black comp forks, and the rear suspension fix would those changes change a few of them over?
Frame braking at the frequency posted is scary. That ratio is nearly 1 out of 12! Wow..... either some folks are really beating these bikes up with big air or Trek really has a frame design issue. I also noticed that quite a few of the guys with broken frames claimed to be big boys! Well over 200 pounds as stated by several of them.
Any way I hope this compiled data is of some use to others considering this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CAM
a Cross Country Rider
from Brisbane, Australia Date Reviewed: November 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Hendry Cycles
Strengths:
Suspension, no bob. Very fast bike. Climbs like there is no tommorow. Manitou fork works nicely
Weaknesses:
Bontrager chain rings bent on the second day. Stock jones tyres not the grippest. Bontrager chain rings....did I mention the bontrager chain rings.
Although I have had a few problems with the initial set up of this bike I still love it to death. Chain rings, large and middle, bent to such a degree in a couple of days that it damaged the chain and the rear derail. jockey wheel. Bike shop at which I purchased tried to claim it was wear and tear (yeah right). Replaced chain rings and and jockey wheel at my expense with XT components and although it was extra cost it has made the bike so much better.
I can give my friends 30 to 40 yards head start in a climb and catch them easily. This bike flies uphill. Occassionally wish for slightly more active rear end on long rough downhill trails, the stumpjumper seems a little more capable in these sections, but any other time the trek is super smooth and quick.
A decent set of tyres and rings and (XTR brakes) and this thing is a goer. I would sleep with this thing in my bed if my girlfriend didn't stop complaining about it leaving grease on the sheets. Totally recommend this bike, if just they dumped the crappy chain rings then it would be heaven.
Black paint job looks oh so sweet!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carl Leist
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A. Date Reviewed: October 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Private Trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1399.00
Purchased At:
Cyclist Connection
Strengths:
After Riding the Fuel from the Standpoint of a Longtime Full Rigid Fan, I found that being able to overpump the rear shock and tighten up the front helped the bike's true geometry shine through. I could never break the bike short of hitting it with a truck. The components of the 2001 vs. the 2002 are much better and will provide a lightweight yet durable setup. I'm a speed rider (instead of technical) and after building the bike myself at the shop nothings shook loose yet. One note on the bike for anybody like that is that the lizard skins for the chainstays do get sucked back into the cassette/deraileurs. This bike is Deffinitely something comparable to many high end bikes and with a good rider can compete just as well.
Weaknesses:
The higher rear end does bug me a bit on downhills, but then again I've had that problem with every bike except downhill specific bikes. Buyers Should probably get a size smaller than suggested if doing much technical riding. No gripes beyond that.
When it comes down to it, I've been riding just long enough to see that there are a lot of fat or under par riders that roll out the big bucks to get fancier & Lighter Bikes/Parts, that break more often or require more maintenance. The Fuel 90 isn't too fancy and has a level of parts and design that with a good rider can blow away say Amp B-4's, Rocket 88 Stage 1's, and even Fuel 100's. The Bike is damn near invincible and has a nice feel and Big... Big... I mean some really big balls for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charlie Cohen
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA USA Date Reviewed: October 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Sullivan Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Helen's Westwood
Strengths:
Incredible frame, great shocks, front and rear (esp if you buy the lockout), really, really cool looking, decals easily removed, light yet solid, it just feels right!
Weaknesses:
Some lousy componants on stock that are EASILY replaced for very little money if you upgrade at the time of purchase.
Upgraded whole drive train to Shimano XT including shifters, Avid SD7 brake levers, Serfas Grips, Terry Fly Saddle, Lock-out upgrade for front shock, replaced tires.
Bottom Line:
Look, there's no getting around it, the Bontrager parts are crap. There was chain suck on every one I test drove. BUT, the componants can be replaced with good ol' SHimanos, XT at that, for very little money if you do it when you buy the bike. The above price INCLUDES all the upgrades listed. And for the money you couldn't do better.
As far as the other bikes I tried, the Specialized felt chintzy, the Canondale clunky, the Sugar was too mushy for me, and the GT was too heavy and ugly.
The basic bike, frame and suspension are a dream. My rides mix road and mountain and include a lot of climbing. I'm no daredevil on the downhill, but I wanted a FS bike to give me more control. This bike is perfect. It has so little bob you wouldn't know it was FS until you get to the dirt. I expected the suspension to help on the downhill, but it actually gives me more power on the up.
This bike is an endless pleasure to ride. It's light, precise, hugs the road, and, with the upgrades listed, works like a dream. I'm giving it 5 chilis even though it's not good out of the box because, once upgraded, for the money, it's the best bike out there!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fuelishness
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan, USA Date Reviewed: October 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1280.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Xcellent XC bike....climbs well, no "bobbing", front to rear suspension nicely "balanced"....looks almost "normal"
Weaknesses:
cheap stickers ( ...only "TREK" stickers on downtube remain ).....creaking seat-tube (since "fixed" with some White Lightning)
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Super-V, Trek Y-bike, Klein Mantra
Bike Setup:
Stock, plus a couple of shots of White Lightning down inside the seattube...
Bottom Line:
I don't know what y'all are doin' to YOUR Fuels, but I have no probs with drivetrain, no frame breaking, no chainrings bending, etc....possibly due to my being light in weight, who knows ???...but this bike is excellent for the $$$. If ridden as designed (as a XC bike - that's CROSS COUNTRY !!!!...NOT "let's see how high of a drop off I can survive"), I forsee no problems with catastrophic failures as some are experiencing. I love this bike, which replaced my trusty 10 year old rigid Schwinn MTB. Feels more like a hardtail than other f/s rigs in terms of stiffness and response, without the associated body-beating from a hardtail...Get on yer bikes and RIDE :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Topeka, KS Date Reviewed: October 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
porcupine rim
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
capps bike shop
Bottom Line:
I have had this bike for a little under a year and am impressed with the "no bob" full suspension. The Rolf wheel set are very strong. I recently got a rock caught in my spokes and did not break anything and the wheel stayed true. I like the bike and enjoy the feel very much over the Y-3 I previously rode. Although I have had a few problems. First the bolt in the crank broke while riding. Secondly, my frame broke at the seat post and top frame tube. I noted that the previous review had the same thing happen. It is on its way back to the shop.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fabien Pichard
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodinville, wa Date Reviewed: October 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Nachess Pass, wa
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Sammamishcycle.com
Strengths:
Geometry, rear suspension (no bobbing)
Weaknesses:
FRAME: 128 miles and the frame cracked at the weld top tupe X seat tube. I guess it did not break because I use a vbery long seat post.. As of 10/22/01 the bike is @ the shop. Shifting: Is seems that the rear suspension changes the geometry enough to cause problems to shift in the middle chainring. Bontrager pedals: the 2 pedals broke during the same ride. The metal piece that holds the front cleat broke on both pedals. Manito fork: Too lightweight, I changed it to a RoxShox judy Race. Bontrager Seat: The stiches hurt my butt! That's a bad saddle or a saddle of wussies that ride only one hour at a time.
Bottom Line:
Buy the 2001 frame and put the components you want.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin Wilson
a Cross Country Rider
from Bakersfield, Ca USA Date Reviewed: October 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Everyone
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$900.00
Strengths:
It's a Trek frame.
Weaknesses:
Bontrager parts
Similar Products Used:
Intense Tracer, Turner O2, Cannondale F700, Intense Uzzi SL. Etc
Bike Setup:
XTR cranks bottom bracket, Brakes, Manitou Black Elite Air,Bontrager race lite wheels(Excellent), Thomson seatpost, Thomson stem, SDG seat, Sram 9.0 shifter and rear derailleur, XTR front derailleur, Chris King head set, Time Carbon Ti pedals, Pro taper bars.
Bottom Line:
Trek makes great frames and anybody who has been riding for longer than 2 to 3 years knows that most of Bontragers stuff is junk. Now Iv'e been riding his wheels for some time know and there great it's just everyting else sucks. Unfortunately for us as consumers we have this misfortune of buying from a mass production Co. They just have deals with crapy parts manufactures. That's why if you are in good with your dealer just buy the frame and build it with either Shimano XT or XTR or I would go with SRAM parts. The bike is great The parts aren't. once you get rid of the Bontrager parts you will love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad Filmer
a Downhiller
from St. Joseph, MO Date Reviewed: October 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the long trail (winter park, CO)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Ride Bicycles
Strengths:
Great ride and suspension, especially for uphill riding; cool look and paint
Love this bike other than a few minor flaws. The rear shock failed to hold air after a month of riding, but that was taken care of by LBS. Chain broke the 2nd day I had it, but I think that may have been my GF's little sisters messing with the shifters. Don't care for the Bontreger BB. Bike rides like a dream on fast rides, especially downhill. This suprised me since it was supposed to be a XC bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd Barczak
a Cross Country Rider
from Ocoee Date Reviewed: October 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ecenter
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1899.00
Purchased At:
Lake Mary Cycle
Strengths:
The frame and design of the suspension. This bike is very tight and fun to ride.
Weaknesses:
Bontrager tires cake up in mudd. Already had chain replaced and brace added to disc breaks to stop vibration. My saddle rails also broke on me.
Similar Products Used:
GT Idrive 3.0
Bike Setup:
Stock components, with Shimano chain, Panaracer FireXC Pro Tires, Terri Fly Saddle and the hayes hydrolic disc breaks. I gave thought to upgrading my LX components to XT, but I just can't justify it yet. Everything is just running really smooth now.
Bottom Line:
For the money I am very happy with this bike. It is a great ride both on trails and on pavement. The suspension is excelent and has no bob'ing. Aside from a few issues with components it has been a great purchase.
I had Trek replace my chain and add the fix to the rear disc break vibration issue and the bike runs great now. I was happy with Trek's response time. From the point that I emailed them with my concerns, my bike shop had the parts installed on my bike within a week.
Plus I love the black color of the 2001 models versus the new 2002's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam Jaffe
a Cross Country Rider
from Scranton Date Reviewed: October 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Strengths:
The Ride is fast and there is no bob. Someone below complained that he couldn't tell that it was a softtail. He actually complained...then said he wanted a hardtail with a suspension seatpost...wuss! The frame is great. The linkage prevents the pogo effect that all bikes seem to have, and stiffens up the whole frame. The price/performance is great considering that entry level full. susp. bikes cost the same.
Weaknesses:
Bontranger! You hear me Trek...BONTRANGER BONTRANGER BONTRANGER. I love your bikes, but lose the scrap metal. I know you own the company, maybe huffy would buy it.
IT SEEMS THAT TREK DOESN'T EXPECT ANY SERIOUS RIDER TO BUY FULLY ASSEMBLED BIKES.
Are you listening Trek? Trek?
For words you can understand Trek - Bontranger = increased sales, value and quality
Similar Products Used:
Lots
Bike Setup:
Fuel 90 soon to be no Bontranger IRC Serac rubbers(GET SOME NOW) Easton fiberbar
Bottom Line:
BUY THIS FRAME AND ONLY THE FRAME...then build it up.
this is my repost and I have to set it strait.
I love the frame, I want to get a fuel 100, but there is no chance that I'd put bontranger on my bike.
Roland Green wouldn't, why should I.
Oh yeah, and to those who think the bike sux, tell that to him.(National Champ)
I was going to give trek 5 chilli's, but the bontranger one broke.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dean Mullin
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: October 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
United Cycle
Strengths:
Suspension
Weaknesses:
I have already reviewed this bike once, just after I started riding it. I have had the drivtrain replaced because of the chainline error. The rear brake vibration has been worsening. I requested the fix parts from Trek, through the dealer, in August and have pestered the dealer about the parts. They are not here yet (October). Trek service is dismal. I have had to machine parts at my own expense to render this dud rideable. I will not own another Trek nor will any of my family or any friends who listen to me. My opinion is that this product was not adequately refined and Trek was happy to take my money and stick me with known lemon.
Similar Products Used:
None - the number of problems with this bike make it unique.
Bike Setup:
Replaced all Bontrager scraps, tires, saddle. Aluminum strip brace to make the brake silent in back. Future expectation - duct tape to hold the top and seat tubes together.
Bottom Line:
A shameful offering.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: October 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$900.00
Strengths:
This is regarding frame breakage, see below.
Weaknesses:
This is regarding frame breakage, see below.
Similar Products Used:
This is regarding frame breakage, see below.
Bike Setup:
This is regarding frame breakage, see below.
Bottom Line:
I tested the 2001 Fuel 80 and then came to read the reviews on the Fuel...
There were several reports of the frame breaking which concerned me so I emailed Trek. They responded within a couple days. They said they had some frames break but it was related to the seat post being set "at or near it's maximum height line, putting a lot of stress on that part of the seat tube." They went on to say, "We have modified production to alleviate the possibility of that happening."
So, if you are tall and need to set the seat high the '01 frames may have more potential of breakage. However the shop I test rode at, "Missing Link" in Berkeley, said they sold many, many Fuel 90's and have not had any come back broken....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
marty
a Cross Country Rider
from west bend wi usa Date Reviewed: October 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
south kettle
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
pedal morraine
Strengths:
I am 6'5" and 230 lbs. This is the first bike I have had that fits and is able to do what I want it to do.(go anywhere,mostly fast) The faster you go the better it feels. I love passing people going up hill. The rear suspension rocks. No lockout needed. The componentry is good for the money. This is a great all around bike.
Weaknesses:
But there are some problems. I too bent the chain rings.(LX hollowtech is on order) My frame creaks too. The pivot bolts keep coming loose. The preload adjuster in the fork broke. I destoyed the free wheel. Not the most nimble handler in the really tight stuff.
Similar Products Used:
I looked at a Sugar but the dealer wanted full price.
Bike Setup:
Stock for now but changing BB and cranks. Going to Wildgrippers.
Bottom Line:
I really like this bike, but wish for a little more durability. The truth is a ride it hard and the bike is not a limiting factor. With some upgrades I will like it even better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ted
a Weekend Warrior
from Northern California Date Reviewed: September 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Rockville
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Freewheeler
Strengths:
Great ride, good climbing manners, nice overall feel
I read all of the reviews and decided that I would swap out everything for XT. Well all of the parts came in except the bottom bracket was to small 110mm It needs a 118mm. Anyways took the bike home with the Bontrager stuff and went out on its maiden voyage. I couldn't believe it I had that same freakin squeak that I kept reading about, I found it immediately and its coming from the damn Bontrager Crank.....This will soon become a garden decoration in someone's back yard. Anyways the bike is very very nice (other than the squeak/creak). It climbs very well and is very well mannered. The suspension was a snap to adjust and set up. Right out of my front door is a large levee area near the sacramento river and it has alot of downhills that are very choppy. I sent this thing at speed down many of them last night and it just cruised right on through. Anyways dump the Bontrager junk to include tires and get it on this thing will not dissapoint!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a Racer
from Barrie Date Reviewed: September 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Gates & Boards
Strengths:
Good balanced feel, excellent climbing, fast on gnarly single track
Weaknesses:
bottom bracket, lousy bontrager chain rings, lousy jones tires, and I did break my frame--slowly. I heard a crazy creak especially night riding when its colder. Same spot as all the others, I'm lucky to have a great dealer who lent me his own fuel 100 till mine is fixed
Similar Products Used:
proflex 4000
Bottom Line:
make the changes and enjoy a really nice to ride bike, are you listening TREK, why couldn't you hve forseen these problems so it would be a great bike out of the box.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Hagen
a Weekend Warrior
from Lewistown, IL USA Date Reviewed: September 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Dirksen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Bellevue Bicycle
Strengths:
1. Very nibble chassis. 2. Plush fork 3. Comfortable to ride standing or sitting. 4. Cool looking. 5. Hayes disc brakes stop in anything(rain or shine) 6. Tires work well until they get mud filled.
Weaknesses:
1. Drivetrain lousy. 2. Rear brake vibration and noise.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F400 Jamis Dakar Pro
Bike Setup:
Stock Fuel 90 with Manitou SX-R fork and Hayes Disc brakes. Handlebar changed to Titec Ringleader 1" riser Deore crankset (from dealer to attempt to fix chainsuck problem). THE fenders(they look excellent on this bike).
Bottom Line:
Great XC bike with potential. My biggest problem surrounds the drivetrain. I bent the small and medium chain rings after the chain sucked up over the chainstay locking the wheel completely. I proceeded to crank. Needless to say after some choice words the bike was on it's back (twice on 2 different rides)to repair the damage. The second I broke the chain. My buddy had to hold me back so I would not killed the already wounded bike! The suspension is to soft for me to get real aggressive in rough stuff or jumps.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: September 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Red Lizard
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
Looks
Weaknesses:
Strength of frame and Treks Lousy warranty plus all the bontrager crap components.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS 2, Specialized FSR XC Pro
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
THE DAMN FRAME BROKE AT THE SEAT-TUBE/TOP TUBE WELD!! Trek took 5 weeks to replace it ...... when I got the replacement frame it had the wrong decals on it and I missed 5 weeks of prime riding weather!! And to top it all off it still has the goofy welded joint in the seat tube!! Cant trust it at all so im selling it to someone I dont like....might be a plan to put heavy life insurance on him and retire when it breaks again and kills him??!!! Talked to a Trek rep and he was down right rude and very arrogant!! The last trek I will ever buy!! Anyone who has creaking in seatpost area LOOK OUT and get some insurance!!!!!! If I could rate it a ZERO or Negative I would!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Racer
from Jamestown, NY Date Reviewed: September 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Does it matter?
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Time proven full suspension design (has the same basic rear suspension design as the Turner O2). Decent mix of components (except for Bontrager crank and BB). Handles well; suspension does a good job at soaking up the hits but does not bob under power or when pedalling uphill. I have been pleasantly surprised by the Rolf Dolomite wheelset--no problems thus far. I am a light rider (140 lbs) and have found the Manitou SX-R fork to be very plush and problem free after several weeks of breaking the fork in and experimenting with the rebound and compression damping. The color and graphics also look pretty cool--I like the all black color scheme.
Weaknesses:
Had mystery creak in top tube that seemed to vanish on its own. Had a lot of trouble with chainsuck and dropping the chain off of the small chainring until my chronic complaining to Trek and LBS resulted in a replacement 110 mm BB and LX crankset--problem solved. Never bothered to ride the stock Bontrager Jones AC tires; after reading previous reviews immediately changed them.
Similar Products Used:
First dual suspension FS/XC bike owned.
Bike Setup:
Stock Trek fuel with following exceptions: changed to Serfas Lola saddle, better two bolt seatpost, LX crank, 110 mm BB, Time Alium pedals. I do not have the disk brake version.
Bottom Line:
I feel I got my money's worth. Bike rides and handles well and does a great job smoothing out the bumps without sapping pedalling efficiency under power due to pedalling induced bobbing. I have had no problem with Bontrager handlebars (after I cut an inch off of each side) and stem but I wish Trek had spec'ed an LX crankset rather than Bontrager to begin with. Overall, after some fine tuning and swapping a few components I'd have to say that I am very happy with this bike and would buy it again if I had to do it all over. I've ridden over 500 miles on this bike since April and have had no real problems whatsoever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Racer
from Jamestown, NY Date Reviewed: September 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Does it matter?
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Time proven full suspension design (has the same basic rear suspension design as the Turner O2). Decent mix of components (except for Bontrager crank and BB). Handles well; suspension does a good job at soaking up the hits but does not bob under power or when pedalling uphill. I have been pleasantly surprised by the Rolf Dolomite wheelset--no problems thus far. I am a light rider (140 lbs) and have found the Manitou SX-R fork to be very plush and problem free after several weeks of breaking the fork in and experimenting with the rebound and compression damping. The color and graphics also look pretty cool--I like the all black color scheme.
Weaknesses:
Had mystery creak in top tube that seemed to vanish on its own. Had a lot of trouble with chainsuck and dropping the chain off of the small chainring until my chronic complaining to Trek and LBS resulted in a replacement 110 mm BB and LX crankset--problem solved. Never bothered to ride the stock Bontrager Jones AC tires; after reading previous reviews immediately changed them.
Similar Products Used:
First dual suspension FS/XC bike owned.
Bike Setup:
Stock Trek fuel with following exceptions: changed to Serfas Lola saddle, better two bolt seatpost, LX crank, 110 mm BB, Time Alium pedals. I do not have the disk brake version.
Bottom Line:
I feel I got my money's worth. Bike rides and handles well and does a great job smoothing out the bumps without sapping pedalling efficiency under power due to pedalling induced bobbing. I have had no problem with Bontrager handlebars (after I cut an inch off of each side) and stem but I wish Trek had spec'ed an LX crankset rather than Bontrager to begin with. Overall, after some fine tuning and swapping a few components I'd have to say that I am very happy with this bike and would buy it again if I had to do it all over. I've ridden over 500 miles on this bike since April and have had no real problems whatsoever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony Jackson
a Weekend Warrior
from Alabama Date Reviewed: September 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Anything I dont have 2 push up
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Goldens bike shop Lagrange,GA
Strengths:
Suspension design,Strength of frame, Wheels
Weaknesses:
Bontrager crap on drivetrain,Squeak in seatpost area
Got one of the first 2001 XL frames made supposedly in Feb 2001. Doubted the wheels would hold up b/c I am a big guy 6'4 260.Have been very surprised have only had the wheels trued once since purchase.The weaknesses of this bike are evident in the shifting.Had a bad problem with ghostshifting but the problem was solved when LBS replaced bontrager crank and bottom bracket with LX. Also replaced with shimano chain. Since the swap shifting has been bulletproof. As far as the squeak in the seatpost just put some icewax in their once or twice and the noise dissappears.Overall this bike rocks just needs a little bit of tweaking to be awesome. Highly recommend this bike 2 anyone looking 4 a quality fs/xc bike. As far as the reviews on frame breaking something more than cross country must have done that.Give it 5 stars for value but only 4 for overall value b/c of the junk drivetrain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Davey Brown
a Cross Country Rider
from North Liberty, Ia Date Reviewed: September 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
sugarbottom
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Hall Bicycle
Strengths:
Lightweight, price, duribility, some components.
Weaknesses:
Bontrager Comp Crankset, Rolf Scewers.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Rocket 88, Gary Fisher Sugar Series
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Michelin Wild Grippers and Deore Crankset.
Bottom Line:
For starters, this is an awesome bike. I have read other reviews and would like to comment on a few of them. As far as the bottom bracket/ crankset is concerned there is a real problem. My LBS mechanic and I spent a solid day figuring this one out. 1st, the bottom bracket is too wide for the Bontrager crank. We replaced the 113mm with a 110mm. This helped some. However, the small and middle chainrings are junk. I bent mine twice. (We straightened them the first time.) I replaced it with a Deore for now will upgrade later. I have found no other problems with the drivetrain. The rear disc problem is also a reality. Trek in there infinite wisdom designed a real quality repair kit. (read- cheap and ugly) It does fix the problem however I suggest that you find a machinist to design something better. The brake problem is fixed for 2002 with a new mount. As far as the creaking in the seattube/ bottom bracket, I have not experienced this. I have however noticed a creak in the rear skewer. Some may be mistaking this for a creak in the seat/ bottom bracket. replace the Rolf with a Shimano and see. Overall I feel that this is a well designed bike from the Big Bike Maker of Wisconsin. It has minimal bob on uphills and cush ride on the way down. The front fork needs to come with different springs or something because it is flexy and squishy. The 90 Disc fills the amateur racer/ recreational rider catagory perfect. Don't write this bike off because of a few minor component errors. Also for all of you wondering why Trek specs Bontrager components is because they own Bontrager.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Brakeville
a Cross Country Rider
from Burlington Date Reviewed: September 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Sugar bottom, Iowa City
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
On Two Wheels
Strengths:
Geometry, rear pivot design, weight, Love the rolf wheels, I can't bend em.
Weaknesses:
Shifting (read CHAIN SUCK),front fork, tires.
Similar Products Used:
First bike in a long time
Bike Setup:
Panaracer xc pro's, ODI grips, otherwise as delivered.
Bottom Line:
It was love at first sight, I just knew I wanted it. It was later on after reading these reviews I've started to change some of the components on the bike. I live with the creaking BB, I cut the stock bars down at LEAST an inch still plenty of leverage. Bontrager tires are useless unless you weld the headset and ride in a straight line, the xc pro's fixed that. I did not dig the grips either so on with the ODI lock on's. As this is my first F.S. bike you can take this review with a grain of salt, but the bike performs well on climbs w/no bobbing or noticable rear end flex, I hit the scales at a svelt 195, but the suspension (rear at least) feels like it has more than three inches of travel and is hard to bottom out. Look around at other offerings and component/price trade offs are very similiar. I think that "for the money", you can't do any better with an off the shelf bike, and ANY rider will change the basic platform to suit his/her needs. I plan on going to a rock shok SID w/100 mm travel up front and the float R in back so I can tune it for trail conditions, I have the V-brake version and the Rolf paired spoke wheels, they are still true after 2 25k XC races and a couple of slickrock runs in Moab. (pleasantly surprized) I can only guess what happened to those bikes further into this review in terms of broken frames etc., and that is a feeling of pure confidence you get while riding this bike, that it INVITES you to push it beyond what it was intended to endure, but as a F.S. XC/race bike, it works.
looks good, relatively light smooth ride, few good components.
Weaknesses:
rear suspension is not noticeable rather have a hardtail equipped with a suspension seat post. less weight and less money. did your sales man tell you this?
looks good, relatively light smooth ride, few good components.
Weaknesses:
rear suspension is not noticeable rather have a hardtail equipped with a suspension seat post. less weight and less money. did your sales man tell you this?
Similar Products Used:
tons.
Bike Setup:
factory
Bottom Line:
go for a real full suspension.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs Date Reviewed: September 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
Light...agile...easily maneuverable...very very fast!!! Nice component setup for the $$$.
Weaknesses:
Shifting not as smooth as one would expect. Bontrager Comp crank is wack! Front fork seems "squishy"...but it could be because I haven't got it dialed in right yet. Tires dont work well in wet/muddy conditions.
Bike Setup:
Stock + Deore crankset + XT cassette. Future upgrades will include LX HollowTech crank w/ ES70 BB and XT brakes.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. This is my first FS bike and I cannot believe how well this bike handles. Cornering is quick and the bike is light and very reponsive. WIth the rear shock at 2/3 my body weight (I weigh 160), the bike moves along as solidly as a hardtail...with little to no bobbing. I was pretty tweaked about bending the crank on the second day, but sh*t happens. After putting on a Deore crank (quick fix...will upgrade to LX HollowTech w/ ES70 BB) and replacing the SRAM cassette with an XT - shifting is smooth like butta'. Within the 1st month, this bike has already made me a better rider. I felt confident from the first time I rode the bike and tackled many trails I wouldn't touch with my hardtail. Very fun to ride!!! I only give it 4 chili's because of the wack crankset and BB it comes with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Racer
from K-Vegas Date Reviewed: September 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Urban HP, and Hobby Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bike Shop
Strengths:
I have the 2002 model. Almost everything, the stock Psylo XC is awesome, hard to even notice the extra weight, and the travel comes in when you race light downhill or freeride.
Weaknesses:
Disc Brakes, Rubbing that i nor the lbs can fix, and squealing that is too much for discs. I know they should some, but i had only taken the bike downtown and in no dirt, no grass, and no water when they started yelling loud enough for people a block away to hear. Stock tires are a load of crap. They clog easily with mud and loose traction and have no stoping power in anything. I replaced with panaracer fire xc pro's for normal riding, and michelin hot s for rough riding. Bontrager crank creaks and bothers me, and chain slips sometimes. Bontrager components other than wheels are usually too heavy and not a good value.
Similar Products Used:
GT- DH-I Race GT- I Drive 2.0 Schwinn Rockets Trek VRX's GT - Lobo Giant ATX FS Trek Hardtails GT Ruckus Trek Stp 300 Trek old model y-frames Schwinn Straight Six Schwinn S-10
Bike Setup:
Stock except for odi grips, icon 2" riser, m-646 pedals and Shimano DX, Panaracer tires
Bottom Line:
An awesome bike to get for xc racing, disc problem is just annoying and i have total confidence in every part of the bike there is. Not a great freeride bike, but does stairs better than almost anything ive rode. IF youre looking for a great stock bike for xc racing, then get the Fuel.
If anyone has a fix for the disc brakes, e-mail me.
Dispite the problems i give it five big ones for value because it is the most reliable bike that is out there right now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trey
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, Co. Date Reviewed: September 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
JeffCo Open Space, Colorado Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1967.00
Purchased At:
Wheat Ridge Cyclery
Strengths:
Unbelievable climbing, fun on downhills, brakes (once you get "the fix")
Weaknesses:
THE BRAKES!!! (until you get "the fix")
Similar Products Used:
My previous bike wasn't real similar, but I still have a place for it in my heart even though it's been sold into 2nd Hand pergatory. God bless that Yellow `92 Stumpjumper with all those upgrades. sniff
Bike Setup:
Stock except for self-sealing innertubes (crucial to riding around here)
Bottom Line:
I've taken this review very seriously. I think this is an awesome bike. I loved it even when it did have the now-gone hideous rear-brake shutter/squeal. Until I got "the fix" it was like a one man band going down the trail. The noise was kinda embarassing at times, and I apologized for scaring wildlife, straining the ears of dogs, and the profanity unleashed on the hikers of Jefferson, Boulder, and Park Counties.
But- this bike is awesome.
It climbs like you wouldn't believe. It's fast and unreal smooth on the downhills. This IS a fun XC bike that will make you ride faster and further.
There are some complaints: * You've got to get the fix, or the disc brakes will annoy you and that ain't right. Disc brakes are your friends. * "The fix" is ugly when compared to the beauty of the original frame. * There's a strange flexing sound coming from somewhere in the frame that I can't locate. It's loud enough that it alerts hikers from the rear. * The choice of decals is odd. But once removed, the bike looks even cooler. Not sure if this was intentional. * Lots of people, on lots of different model Treks HATE the Bontrager crank. I don't. I think it's just fine. But enough people have complained about it that I think it's a real problem.
Look past the problems- this bike is worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BobShel
a Cross Country Rider
from SE Michigan USA Date Reviewed: September 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Poto Trail, Pinckney, Mich
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
LBS Jack's Dearborn MI
Strengths:
Balanced suspension, no "bobbing", climbs great, looks great (I prefer the more "traditional" look of front triangle), it SCOOTS when mashing pedals !! handles great.
Weaknesses:
no damping control on rear shock
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y-bike(1999), Klein Mantis (1999)....my bro's bikes....both pogo-ed too much...he's impressed with my Fuel's capabilities...
Bike Setup:
Stock, with addition of cut-down Control Stix barends from my old "beater"
Bottom Line:
...yes, it developed the seatpost "creak"...lubed the tube, prob solved....I had slight chainsuck/skip prob initially, but, after "break-in" and some "tinkering" on my part, prob solved and shifing is flawless. I've read, with some concern, others' problems with the frame cracking, etc...I'm keeping an eye out for this, but don't forsee it as a problem, as I'm a flyweight....This bike delivers when ridden as it is intended...a nice, capable XC rig.....climbs and handles well, descends fine (ain't no downhiller or freereide bike, ...but I ain't no downhiller or freereider...) This rig does what it was intended to do, period. Just wishing it had rear damping adjustability....oh well, the stock Float will do until it blows out.... Tires are an OK choice by Trek...it's an "all purpose" tire.....good enough to use until they wear out. Having the time of my life, (first f/s I've owned, but have ridden several)... Judging by other reviews, some of the part specs may have been questionable(although I've no problem with Trek's choices), so I must go with 4 chilies for value, as their comments are in the back of my mind....Givin' a five for Overall, 'cause this rig does all that I'd ask of a bike (I ride with enough finesse to keep my equipment running...am not out to break stuff just to whine about it....anything'll break if you abuse it enough...) Ride on :) BobShel
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alpha beta gamma delta epsilon
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, Canada Date Reviewed: September 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
no favorites
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
cyclesmith
Strengths:
This bike is great so far as I know
Weaknesses:
I have yet to find out
Similar Products Used:
cannondale jekyl
Bike Setup:
I am using this posting as a question to those of you who know. (I rated it the average rating so as not to affect this) I just ordered this bike from my bike store, and have requested the following upgrades so that I get credit for the stock parts. (I would rather not use crappy parts, find they're crappy, then upgrade without credit for the crappy parts). The bike will arrive in about a week, and I can still change my request. Please let me know what those of you who've owned the bike think about my set-up and perhaps how you would alter it.
Bottom Line:
I've ordered these changes: 1. cranks changed to Shimano LX (kept the square bottom br) 2. cassette changed to XT 11-34 3. brakes (levers left LX stock) changed to XT
Does anyone recommend a different set-up? and if you have a chance to write it, it would be awesome to know why you recommend what you do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zilla
a Cross Country Rider
from Cary, NC Date Reviewed: September 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Cycling Spoken Here
Strengths:
Climbs like a hardtail. Rear shock works well. Best bang for the buck.
Weaknesses:
Tires slip a lot on roots.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Stock except Selle Italia Max Trans Am seat and Shimano PD M-545 pedals
Bottom Line:
Before this bike I had a Toys 'R Us special FS but hey it was enough to make me like the sport and buy a real bike. The small (15.5") Fuel 90 "fit" me the best so I got it. It also had better components that the comparable Klein Adept Comp I was considering for $200 less. Well this bike is a far cry from the Toys 'R Us one I had. It made me a better rider and addicted to the sport. I do admit the tires slip on roots soI plan to upgrade to the Panaracer XCs one of these days. I have experienced the BB/crankset problem but I thought that was just because of a badly adjusted derailleur, which my LBS fixed. I keep the chain on my middle chaining most of my rides and just use the rear derailleur to tune my gearing. I'm starting to be more aggressive so I'll start keeping a look out for a cracked frame. Overall I've been satisfied with the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mikeeh
a Cross Country Rider
from Sunnyvale, CA Date Reviewed: September 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
None as of yet
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Calmar Cycles
Strengths:
weight, for a beginner on full suspension bike suspensions has been great (Manitou SX-R) and (FoX float). and this bike is fast and really handles very well.
Weaknesses:
drivetrain (Bontrager Crankset, Cassette, chain), rear disc brake (noise & vibration), Bontrager Jones AC tires, and i did not notice any weakness on some Bontrager components (like the handle bar, seat post, stem) but they will be replaced soon.
Similar Products Used:
GT I-Drive 2.0, Klein Attitude
Bike Setup:
All stock for the mean time, except for the tires, got the Panaracer XC Pros (2.1 F&R), front fork will be upgraded to a Marzocchi Z1 100-130mm travel, and race face next LP crankset and upgrade the derailleurs to XTR's,
Bottom Line:
This bike is really great, it is just too bad that the bike was set up with mostly Bontrager components and leaving us having to upgrade it. That bites but i really like this bike and has elevated my skills as i have noticed and once i upgraded the necessary components, this bike has alot of potential. And as for the other reviews regarding the frame cracking, it hasn't happen, but i do take this bike downhill on a moderately rocky downhill trail and it has really proven it can handle it. I also noticed that the stock tires didn't really grip as well so that was upgraded with a pair of Panaracer XC's.I'll post another review soon as i upgrade my bike but in the mean time this is a great bike with alot of potential, and a great climber and handles well as long as you got the right parts. Keep Trekkin'!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raymond
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton, AB, CANADA Date Reviewed: September 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Edmonton river valley
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
United Cycle
Strengths:
Looks great! Comfortable geometry. Good rear suspension concept. Rolf Satelite paired spoke design is cool!
Weaknesses:
Tires - what was TREK thinking?!? Front shock - whay not just put a ROCK SHOX Judy on? Price - $2280 Canadian ON SALE with disc breaks (ouch!) Bontrager components - Did TREK get a good deal on BONTRAGER??? crank, tires, saddle, seatpost, handlebars, stem, crankset.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized - Various models, Rocky Mountain Instinct, Brody.
Bike Setup:
Factory
Bottom Line:
I really do like this bike. BUT... What's with all the cheap Bontrager crap? The bike store that let me demo it was kind enough to let me test it in a mountain race. The chain was skipping throught my 25km leg and I just thought it was my own stupidity on changing gears. After reading the other reviews I realize that's not so. I took it back home and while riding it my drive way the chain broke! Lucky it did not happen in the race!!
I thought the (sale) price was a little high. $2280 Canadian $$ for the disc brake version, and $1750 canadian $$ (sale) non-disc. Especially with the apparent low quality Bontrager dressings. Did any other of you fellow Canadians get a better deal?
I like the bike store that I am dealing with but I don't know if I want this bike given the apparent problems and price. I think the only change for the 2002 model is a different front fork - did TREK not understand that they should have ipmroved all the other problems?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Marblehead Date Reviewed: September 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Too many to list
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Strengths:
The Fuel 90 disc is great on climbs, stable all around, light just enough travel so it doesn't rob your energy, reasonable price
Weaknesses:
The strength is questionable, not as solid on the downhills as it should be, Trek skimped on some of the components(cassette,cranks,seatpost,handlebar) which didn't help the weight for the cross country riders
Similar Products Used:
Trail Riding Full Suspension -Sugar(too racing specific,no discs) -Tracer(too much money,sweet bike!) -Schwinn Rocket 88 (who knows where Schwinn is heading, have not seen any)
Bike Setup:
Parts changed to Thompson Seatpost, XT Hollowtech cranks, Race Face low riser, XT cassette
Bottom Line:
Trek did a good job designing the Fuel 90(98 and 100 suck, carbon cracks and is for roadies, unless it's Easton). Trek could have worked out deals all around with Bontrager to put better quality conponents on this bike but other than that, this bike is kickin. Downhillers don't look here, Racers don't look here, Trail riders who are looking for a quality, moderately priced, name brand company bike look no further, your Fuel is waiting.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: September 3, 2001
Z-3 air,esp 9 full system,hell bent riser,beserker saddle,hutchinson tire,the rest stock
Bottom Line:
I changed the fork and shifting before buying.Now that the disc squeal is fixed I thought I would be good to go but!!!!!!!!!the seat post cracked yesterday.It WAS a sweet ride .I am hoping trek is quick with another frame,But I have my doubts as to if this will happen again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joel
a Cross Country Rider
from lethbridge canada Date Reviewed: August 28, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
bike shop
Strengths:
light, smooth, good components
Weaknesses:
brakes(rattle) gears came loose on first ride fixed now
Similar Products Used:
none first f/s bike
Bike Setup:
as it came
Bottom Line:
awsome bike now that ive goty all the kinks out of it. ive only been opn A FEW RIDES WTH it i think it will be awsome soon. dont really like manitou fork but ill change it next season when i get some money
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tommy
a Weekend Warrior
from tucson az usa Date Reviewed: August 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
R&R Bicycles
Strengths:
This bike climbs like crazy and the rear sus. is perfect for me.I weigh 235 and do not feel any bob except........
Weaknesses:
In the front suspension!!!What a terrible choice Trek made for a front suspension.They could have at least sold it with a Judy race fork.I know it's probably because of my weight but I had the LBS put the heavy duty spring and it still didn't help at all.The front suspension isn't good for anything but light trails.I couldn't fine tune them at all,so get some new forks right off the bat!!Bontrager cranks and front cog are kind of weak,as soon as I sprinted the chain fell off.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSRxc,Fisher sugar,STP 200
Bike Setup:
stock (for now)
Bottom Line:
This is my first FS bike and before buying it,I tried everything and this bike was head and shoulders above the rest and it's definately the best value for your buck so I give it 5 chili's but only 4 in the overall because of the very very poor front suspension.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darren
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia, PA, USA Date Reviewed: August 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Fantasy Isalnd, Tuscon, AZ
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Guys Bicycles
Strengths:
The fix is in for the squealing brakes!
Bottom Line:
Got the fix from Trek for the brake squeal. It is a forged aluminum bar that links from the cantilever to the bolt that holds the brake cable holder. It is moderately unsightly, but IT WORKS!! The bike no longer makes any noise. I know people have been complaining a lot about Trek customer service and I am sure they are justified, but I got the part in less than a week and it works great. Maybe Trek realized they were about to have a revolt on their hands!! I must admit I just got the bike back and have not taken the bike on a hard ride with the fix yet, but if something goes wrong I will write again. Also, I heard Trek is replacing all cranks on the Fuel 90's. My LBS is looking into it. And as for people writing reviews that rip other riders? GET A LIFE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pearce
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, Georgia Date Reviewed: August 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Yellow River, Santos, and anything in Moeb
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1725.00
Purchased At:
Cycleworks, Roswell Ga.
Strengths:
Climbs like a goat and is easy on the glutes and wallet. My wife and I bought matching 2002 Fuel 90s with discs and have loved the transition from Hardtail to FS. The discs have great stopping power, and the rear shock handles my 275# with 80% of max pressure. The new Psylo shock on the 2002 madel works well with the rear system to give the bike a plush ride. Added strengh; my dealer has gone out of his way to make my wife and I happy with our bikes.
Weaknesses:
Be ready to change a few things, tires, front derailleur, and rear cassette. The stock model needs to be fine tuned to your preference as most previous reviewers have commented. We have experienced the "creaks", the vibrating rear disc and the low bracket. Fixed the squeak with White lightening in the seat tube, Trek is sending the after market fix for the rear disc (only 1 bike has the problem), and we will live with the BB as is for a while.
Similar Products Used:
Moab, RM Hammer Race, Demo'd Spice, Fuel 98, and Kline, RM Element
Bike Setup:
We have made the following changes: XTR Front, XT Rear, Panaracer Fire XC tires, XT cassette, XTR front Derailleur, Terry Butterfly seat for my wife, all the rest is stock and working well.
Bottom Line:
Love the bikes, they climb well, corner well and the ride is great. We looked at most FS bikes and read the reviews, then checked the bank account and found the Fuel 90s were the best for our $s. We did plan the extra expense for the changes. As a big man I am very happy with the bikes ability to let me ride and keep up with my 125# wife. We travel to Banff in September and will challenge these bikes with serious trails, any changes to my initial thoughts will be posted. One last comment, many have flamed Trek's customer service; I have been treated well every time I have called and they have given me all the solutions for the minor startup problems. I hope I don't have to challenge their service with any serious problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jennifer
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR Date Reviewed: August 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
any and all
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
didn't buy one
Strengths:
Doesn't bob, climbs well, good handling, good looking
Weaknesses:
Expensive, mystery problems from other reviewers, longish top tube (didn't try the WSD)
Similar Products Used:
decided not to go with full suspension and bought a hardtail
Bike Setup:
Klein Attitude
Bottom Line:
Read the reviews of the Fuel 80, 98, and 100. The 98 and 100 folks have had some problems with the carbon fiber seat stays cracking. The 90 doesn't have carbon seat stays. One Fuel 100 owner had a frame crack. Otherwise there aren't any bad reviews. There are a lot of great reviews. So why are people having so many problems with just the Fuel 90? The disc brake problem seems to be found and solved, but what about all these other complaints? Perhaps some aggressive riders are getting "the cool looking black bike with the discs" and riding it like their freeride bike? Or did Trek have just the 90 built different? I highly doubt that. I think the former is more realistic. I test rode this bike, among others, and thought it was great. I don't have first hand knowledge of riding one long-term, but look at the other reviews. Doesn't that seem a little strange? Am I wrong? Is the Fuel 90 frame totally different than the 80? Are they made in different factories than the 98 and 100 frames?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mikeeh
a Weekend Warrior
from Sunnyvale, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
none as of yet
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Calmar Cycles
Strengths:
Great Climber (don't bite trails, maybe due to the crappy tires it came stock)i just gotthe fire XC pros so we'll see if it handles better on climbs and turns on DH.
Weaknesses:
stock tires, some noise on the rear disc breaks, drivetrain, & yes that creaking noies on the seat post!
Similar Products Used:
GT I-drive 2.0, Klein Attitude
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock,& just replaced the Bontrager tires that came with it with Panaracer XC Pros 2.1 (f&r)
Bottom Line:
This bike is really great except for the things alot of Fuel riders had problems with, and i also started noticing these annoying noises an $1800 bike would make! Nice quality eh? Trek should had packaged the frame with much better components instead of us having to find out that the peices are crap and have to spend more money on them.
I still have alot more trails to try this bike on, so far it has been a really great bike for me since i came off a hardtail bike which weighs 40#!! so a 27'er dual suspension was way way better!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe(racer X) strubinger
a Cross Country Rider
from biking capitol of the world(jim thorpe) Date Reviewed: August 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the DH behind my house
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
good old JAMA bikes
Strengths:
every thing
Weaknesses:
get the rear shock changed if its a fox float R cause its recalled and then get a stratos they rule
Similar Products Used:
i ride a 2000 klein mantra race
Bike Setup:
xtr rear derailuer, brake levers and shifter pods,bontrager race modified wheelset,club roost bars, icon(awesome) crank, thomsomn elite seat post,stratos DH-freeride rear shock and manitou mars C fork
Bottom Line:
ok that info was about my bike but i'm writing this review for my friend jason novack...every thing he said was completely true...i've riden with him since he got the bike and we do mostly singletrack with an occasional DH involved and anything that his bike did mine did also and i did not have any of the troubles he had except for my first rear shock(fox float r) but that had a recall on it but now its fine. he isnt a clidesdale either...the bike just did not come with what it should of for that price and also the "wonderful" @$$holes at our "wonderful" ultra shady bike shop dont do jack $hit to fix things either...trust me they did a "great" job with my bike...yea right. ok now for that "weekend warrior" who has all these friends that dont have any problems with their fuels..yea they dont have any problems but i bet that they keep their bike locked to their front porch railing all summer long so when passar bys can think hes all into it..just let them come up here and we'll put some real mountain bike miles on those bikes and see how they hold up ok racer x is over and out
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JN
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, TX Date Reviewed: August 22, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Strengths:
- Ride and Geometry - Color
Weaknesses:
- Cranks and Rings - Tires - Rear Shock
Similar Products Used:
Sugar, FSR
Bike Setup:
Time ATAC Pedals
Bottom Line:
What made me purchase this bike was the geometry and the looks. What made me return it 3 months later was the number of factory defects it came with!!!! I can't believe TREK actually allowed this bike to hit shop floors!!! My bike came equipped with all the things wrong with it that you have read in these reviews (i.e. Bent chainrings, seatpost NOISE, wrong size bottom bracket, etc..).
In addition, my bike came with a defected rear shock (not a TREK issue)...I'd pump it up to 140psi before the ride and by the 2nd mile it would drop below 70!!!! SUCKED!!!!
Of course, TREK customer service was AWARE of all the problems and provided useless fixes (seatpost noise)!!! I was tired of dealing with the bike..it was only getting worse! So, I was able to return it and received 85% of what I paid for it...whatever...I WAS HAPPY TO LOSE $$$ IN ORDER TO GET RID OF THIS THING!!!! I put close to 600 miles on it before I gave up...
I was tempted to use that money towards the purchase of a Fuel 98...but...went with the Sugar 2 (SHOULD HAVE DONE THAT IN THE FIRST PLACE). It's still ultimately a TREK product, but, it is by far a more stable ride.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thor
a Cross Country Rider
from SoCal Date Reviewed: August 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Sycamore Canyon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
What are you guys doing to your Fuel 90?
Buy the Fuel 98 instead. It climbs like a goat with no bobbing. In SoCal, you don't need disc brakes due to 11 months of great riding weather
Weaknesses:
Bontrager parts, less the seat. Tires are weak; they wash our ez in turns. Sloppy shifting.
Similar Products Used:
I ride the Fuel 98, and it is a fine machine with no problems, except some sloppy shifting.
Bike Setup:
I plan to get beefier tires and XTR chainrings, otherwise it rides great. I also put on some Easton Scandium 2" riser bars for improved comfort and control.
Bottom Line:
You guys are doing some major hucking off 6' drops or something. Better check what you are smoking, then go get your mullet trimmed. These bikes just don't fall apart on their own.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe s.
a Cross Country Rider
from hibbing, mn. u.s.a. Date Reviewed: August 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the old hull road
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
bikes on howard
Strengths:
before the frame cracked in two?? or after?? i'll start with before........i totally loved this bike!! it fit me the best out of the many that i test rode. my rear disc brake didn't vibrate like so many others have said.
Weaknesses:
THE GODAMN FRAME, THE GODAMN FRAME, THE GODAMN FRAME!!!!!!!! the middle chain ring, and my cranks! the freaking FRAME!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thank you Jason for filling the blanks about the crank replacement!!
Bike Setup:
everything stock but the tires.
Bottom Line:
i got the fuel 90 disc in late april. after 1300 miles OF PURE XC!!!!!!!!! i did no drops or anything close to a drop. i'm 6' 215#, this frame should never have broke like it did!!! i'll say it again, this frame should never have broke like it did, no godamn way!!!!!!!!!! this bike was great until the frame crack!! if i don't get a new bike with a life time warr. i'll be upset! if trek doesn't make me happy, i'll never deal with them again!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yo Mamma
a
from USA Date Reviewed: August 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Joes Mom's Ass
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
Hey Joe the weekend warrior from Michigan,
Why don't you learn to spell check your messages, perhaps people will take you a bit more seriously. Also, get your candy ass back in some resource room, after school program and learn proper grammer. In any case, where do you get off flaming someone in a message board where the sole purpose is to give personal reviews on a product? "Weekend Warrior", what's that, an excuse to pry your obvious fat ass from the couch and peddle yourself down to the local liquor store? You know it's people like yourself that sit in front of a computer flaming others to make themselves feel important, right after beating their dog and polishing off a six pack of Molsen. YOU, my plump little friend, need to grow up and learn some manners. Otherwise you will find yourself continuing to work at the local McDonalds for many years to come. Now go out and get your "weekend warrior" psuedo tricycle riding ass to the local 7-11 and splurge on a Big Gulp.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Novack
a Cross Country Rider
from Jim Thorpe Date Reviewed: August 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
does it matter
Bottom Line:
Joe Joe Joe.... You know I did not ever put anyone down on this site and I would really hate to start that now! It is people of your mentality that ruin the internet! I am not 300 lbs not even close, secondly I am not a Free Rider! And really it should not matter if I were! If you knew anything about a bike or even owned your own fuel you could post your opinion! See this is a review forum! Just because you know people who love their bike does not warrant you the right to degrade anyone else that posted a review here! If you would take the time to read the rest of the reviews on this product you would see that jsut about every one describs the same issues I have! See we own them therefore we can gripe about them! Besides I posted a negative review not only becasue of the high quality I expect from a bike that I paid 1800 dollars for, but also the lack of service that I have recieved from my dealer! I just called Trek again today about it! They know the problems that they are having with them and they are working on solutions! It would be my suggestion that you research a little more before you post any negative things about other people! Further more if you have any other issues to discuss e mail me it is there we can discuss it there! This site is not here to bash other fellow Mountain Bikers! I hope you can consider this and act in a more professional matter in the future!
Sorry Guys I had to respond to that!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe
a Weekend Warrior
from michigan Date Reviewed: August 21, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
all
Weaknesses:
none
Bottom Line:
hey, jason novak, you are quite stupid. i know quite a few people that have trek fuels, they love em and ride them all the time. you musnt relelize the fact this is a cross country bike, not a hardcore free rider. its not made tho be a beasty big hit bike. grow up and go get a new bike, i think a serios gravity rig is what you need because you either weigh 300 lbs or ride of cliffs for fun
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Novack
a Cross Country Rider
from Jim Thorpe Date Reviewed: August 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Single Track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
does it matter
Bottom Line:
The Trek Fuel Owner's Group is now live the site is new and is under construction but it is up includes a guestbook and a forum I will get a member form up asap! visit it and post all you want
http://shadowenpb.clanhappy.com/trekOG.htm
I will also be getting us our own url in the future
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Novack
a Cross Country Rider
from Jim Thorpe Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001
ISSUE #1: BRAKES - SINCE DAY ONE THEY VIBRATED AND I MEAN VIBRATED. COMPARE IT TO LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL EVER HIT THE BALL OFF TEH END OF THE BAT? REMEBER THAT STING. WELL IMAGINGE THAT FOR THE DURATION OF TIME YOU ARE USING THE BRAKES. NOW IMAGINE YOURSELF GOING DOWN A KILLER DECENT THAT IS FAST AND TECHNICAL. OUCH! HAD IT BACK ABOUT 6 TIMES FOR THIS ISSUE STILL NTO RESLOVED. I HAVE BEEN IN THAT SHOP SO MANY TIMES MY CAR CAN DRIVE ITSELF THERE. REAR BRAKE ROTOR CRACKED HAYES WONT WARRANTY IT SIAD A ROCK DID IT! NOW THIS IS COMING FROM THE SUPPOSED BEST DISK MANUFACTURER IN THE WORLD! I'VE HAD BETTER FRISBEES! IF YOUR INTO PAIN IN ORDER TO STOP OR YOU LIKE THAT WHOLE VIBRATING THING WELL THEN GOOD FOR YOU! I DIDI NOT PAY 1800 DOLLARS FOR A BIG BLACK SEX TOY!
ISSUE #2: THE DRIVE TRAIN: WELL SECOND RIDE ON HER BENT 2 CHAIN RINGS AND BEOFRE THAT HAPPENED I HAD THE WORSE CHAIN SUCK I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED! BUGGERED UP MY FRAME DOWN BY THE BB. BROKE THAT CHAIN ABOUT 2 WEEKS LATER. FINNALLY AFTER DOING MY OWN RESEARCH (NO HELP FROM TREK OR MY GREAT BIKE SHOP) I FOUND OUT THAT TREK IS REPLACING ALL CRANKS ON THE FUEL WITH SHIMANO LX OK COOL SO I GET A NEW CRANK......BUT LITTLE DID I KNOW THAT I HAD TO THEN BUY A NEW BB NO BIGGIE BUT COME ON IF YOU KNOW YOUR JUNK IS JUNK THEN REPLACE THE WHOLE THING! WELL THAT LASTED A BIT! ENTERED A RACE... WAS RUNNIGN 4TH IN LEAD PACK JUST CRUISING WHEN YEP YOU GUESSED IN CHAIN BREAKAGE... OK FIXED IT THEN RODE AGAIN GUESS WHAT DID IT AGAIN. WELL THAT WAS IT FOR ME WALKED BACK AMAZING THAT I WAS THE ONLY ONE THAT HAD THAT PROBLEM ALSO AMAZING THAT I WAS THE ONLY ONE ON A FUEL! ALSO TAKE NOTICE THAT WHEN YOU APPLY PRESSURE TO YOUR CRANK LOOK AT THE FRAME DOWN BY THE BB "HOLY FLEX BATMAN" HAVEN'T SEEN THAT MUCH FLEX SINCE THE EARTH QUAKE DURING THE WORLD SERIES. AND THAT IS NOT MEANT TO BE FUNNY! AFRAID I AM GOING TO BREAK THE FRAME IN HALF ONE OF THESE DAYS BUT THAT WILL BE DAY ONE AFTER THE JUNK WARRANTY ON TEH JUNK BIKE RUNS OUT I AM SURE OR THEY WONT COVER IT BECASUE OF SOME LAME @SS EXCUSE.
ISSUE #3: CUSTOMER SERVICE: WELL HOW MANY TIMES DO YOU TAKE A BIKE BACK WEKK AFTER WEEK FOR THE SAME ISSUE AND STILL GET THE SAME DUMB RESPONSE? WELL GET THIS! DUDE AT THE ONE SHOP GOES TO ME "WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO THIS THING" ALMOST PUNCHED HIM RIGHT IN THE MULLET! i SAID "WHAT DO YOU MENA MAN""FOR GOD'S SAKE MAN I PAID AN EXTREME AMOUNT OF DOLLARS FOR THIS THING AND I CANT RIDE UP THE STREET WITH OUT BREAKING IT" WELL THEY HAD THE BIKE FOR ALMOST 2 WEEKS IN MID SPRING WHICH IS PRIME RIDING SEASON! I HAD TO GO UP THERE AND GET THERE BUTTS IN GEAR WELL IT DID NOT MATTER BECASUE THEY DID NOT FIX IT RIGHT! 6 MONTHS 800 AND SOME MILES LATER STILL VIBRATES, CLICKS BREAKS WHATEVER.
ACTUAL TREK CUSTOMER SERVICE: WELL A LITTLE BETTER I HAVE BEEN VERY PATIENT WITH THEM THEY SUPOSSEDLY HAVE A FIX FOR THE BRAKES AND THEY SAID THEY SENT IT TO THE BIKE SHOP! WELL I NEVER GOT CALLED FOR THE PART SO TAKE ANOTHER RIDE TO THE SHOP! GUESS WHAT NEVER CAME.... CATCHING ON NOW I HOPE! WELL TOMM I WILL BE GIVING SOME PEEPS A CALL AND NO MORE PATIENCE TIME TO CHEW SOME @SS!
I READ ALL OF THE PREBIOUS REVIEW ON THIS THING.. AND ALOT OF THEM I AGREED WITH (THE GOOD ONES) WHEN I FIRST GOT THE BIKE. ALL I CAN SAY IS RIDE IT A WHILE AND TAKE IT BACK FOR ANYTHING YOU THINK IS WRONG..
I ACTUALLY AM GOING TO START A FUEL 90 OWNERS GROUP SO WE CAN ALL STAY IN TOUCH BECUASE I AM THINKING ABOUT TELLING TREK THEY CAN KEEP TAKE THEIR BIKE AND SHOVE IT YOU KNOW WHERE! THERE IS NO REASON THAT ANYONE SHOULD HAVE THESE ISSUES AT ALL! HECK THEY DELAYED THE RELEASE OF IT HOW LONG TO TEST IT FURTHER I CAN NOT BELIEVE THAT THEY LET IT HIT THE CONSUMERS LIKE IT DID!
MY E MAIL IS POSTED SO IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR IF YOU DONT AGREE WITH THIS REVIEW FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME! INCLUDING TREK I WOULD LOVE FOR THAT TO HAPPEN! I'D EVEN GIVE THEM MY NUMBER BUT THEY HAVE THAT ON FILE ALREADY!
SO GOOD LUCK TO THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE ONE OF THESE THINGS
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Novack
a Cross Country Rider
from Jim Thorpe Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001
ISSUE #1: BRAKES - SINCE DAY ONE THEY VIBRATED AND I MEAN VIBRATED. COMPARE IT TO LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL EVER HIT THE BALL OFF TEH END OF THE BAT? REMEBER THAT STING. WELL IMAGINGE THAT FOR THE DURATION OF TIME YOU ARE USING THE BRAKES. NOW IMAGINE YOURSELF GOING DOWN A KILLER DECENT THAT IS FAST AND TECHNICAL. OUCH! HAD IT BACK ABOUT 6 TIMES FOR THIS ISSUE STILL NTO RESLOVED. I HAVE BEEN IN THAT SHOP SO MANY TIMES MY CAR CAN DRIVE ITSELF THERE. REAR BRAKE ROTOR CRACKED HAYES WONT WARRANTY IT SIAD A ROCK DID IT! NOW THIS IS COMING FROM THE SUPPOSED BEST DISK MANUFACTURER IN THE WORLD! I'VE HAD BETTER FRISBEES! IF YOUR INTO PAIN IN ORDER TO STOP OR YOU LIKE THAT WHOLE VIBRATING THING WELL THEN GOOD FOR YOU! I DIDI NOT PAY 1800 DOLLARS FOR A BIG BLACK SEX TOY!
ISSUE #2: THE DRIVE TRAIN: WELL SECOND RIDE ON HER BENT 2 CHAIN RINGS AND BEOFRE THAT HAPPENED I HAD THE WORSE CHAIN SUCK I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED! BUGGERED UP MY FRAME DOWN BY THE BB. BROKE THAT CHAIN ABOUT 2 WEEKS LATER. FINNALLY AFTER DOING MY OWN RESEARCH (NO HELP FROM TREK OR MY GREAT BIKE SHOP) I FOUND OUT THAT TREK IS REPLACING ALL CRANKS ON THE FUEL WITH SHIMANO LX OK COOL SO I GET A NEW CRANK......BUT LITTLE DID I KNOW THAT I HAD TO THEN BUY A NEW BB NO BIGGIE BUT COME ON IF YOU KNOW YOUR JUNK IS JUNK THEN REPLACE THE WHOLE THING! WELL THAT LASTED A BIT! ENTERED A RACE... WAS RUNNIGN 4TH IN LEAD PACK JUST CRUISING WHEN YEP YOU GUESSED IN CHAIN BREAKAGE... OK FIXED IT THEN RODE AGAIN GUESS WHAT DID IT AGAIN. WELL THAT WAS IT FOR ME WALKED BACK AMAZING THAT I WAS THE ONLY ONE THAT HAD THAT PROBLEM ALSO AMAZING THAT I WAS THE ONLY ONE ON A FUEL! ALSO TAKE NOTICE THAT WHEN YOU APPLY PRESSURE TO YOUR CRANK LOOK AT THE FRAME DOWN BY THE BB "HOLY FLEX BATMAN" HAVEN'T SEEN THAT MUCH FLEX SINCE THE EARTH QUAKE DURING THE WORLD SERIES. AND THAT IS NOT MEANT TO BE FUNNY! AFRAID I AM GOING TO BREAK THE FRAME IN HALF ONE OF THESE DAYS BUT THAT WILL BE DAY ONE AFTER THE JUNK WARRANTY ON TEH JUNK BIKE RUNS OUT I AM SURE OR THEY WONT COVER IT BECASUE OF SOME LAME @SS EXCUSE.
ISSUE #3: CUSTOMER SERVICE: WELL HOW MANY TIMES DO YOU TAKE A BIKE BACK WEKK AFTER WEEK FOR THE SAME ISSUE AND STILL GET THE SAME DUMB RESPONSE? WELL GET THIS! DUDE AT THE ONE SHOP GOES TO ME "WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO THIS THING" ALMOST PUNCHED HIM RIGHT IN THE MULLET! i SAID "WHAT DO YOU MENA MAN""FOR GOD'S SAKE MAN I PAID AN EXTREME AMOUNT OF DOLLARS FOR THIS THING AND I CANT RIDE UP THE STREET WITH OUT BREAKING IT" WELL THEY HAD THE BIKE FOR ALMOST 2 WEEKS IN MID SPRING WHICH IS PRIME RIDING SEASON! I HAD TO GO UP THERE AND GET THERE BUTTS IN GEAR WELL IT DID NOT MATTER BECASUE THEY DID NOT FIX IT RIGHT! 6 MONTHS 800 AND SOME MILES LATER STILL VIBRATES, CLICKS BREAKS WHATEVER.
ACTUAL TREK CUSTOMER SERVICE: WELL A LITTLE BETTER I HAVE BEEN VERY PATIENT WITH THEM THEY SUPOSSEDLY HAVE A FIX FOR THE BRAKES AND THEY SAID THEY SENT IT TO THE BIKE SHOP! WELL I NEVER GOT CALLED FOR THE PART SO TAKE ANOTHER RIDE TO THE SHOP! GUESS WHAT NEVER CAME.... CATCHING ON NOW I HOPE! WELL TOMM I WILL BE GIVING SOME PEEPS A CALL AND NO MORE PATIENCE TIME TO CHEW SOME @SS!
I READ ALL OF THE PREBIOUS REVIEW ON THIS THING.. AND ALOT OF THEM I AGREED WITH (THE GOOD ONES) WHEN I FIRST GOT THE BIKE. ALL I CAN SAY IS RIDE IT A WHILE AND TAKE IT BACK FOR ANYTHING YOU THINK IS WRONG..
I ACTUALLY AM GOING TO START A FUEL 90 OWNERS GROUP SO WE CAN ALL STAY IN TOUCH BECUASE I AM THINKING ABOUT TELLING TREK THEY CAN KEEP TAKE THEIR BIKE AND SHOVE IT YOU KNOW WHERE! THERE IS NO REASON THAT ANYONE SHOULD HAVE THESE ISSUES AT ALL! HECK THEY DELAYED THE RELEASE OF IT HOW LONG TO TEST IT FURTHER I CAN NOT BELIEVE THAT THEY LET IT HIT THE CONSUMERS LIKE IT DID!
MY E MAIL IS POSTED SO IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR IF YOU DONT AGREE WITH THIS REVIEW FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME! INCLUDING TREK I WOULD LOVE FOR THAT TO HAPPEN! I'D EVEN GIVE THEM MY NUMBER BUT THEY HAVE THAT ON FILE ALREADY!
SO GOOD LUCK TO THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE ONE OF THESE THINGS
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie
a Weekend Warrior
from Kent,Wa. Date Reviewed: August 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The one that's open
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Bad place
Strengths:
Smooth stiff ride. Srong breaking. Looks bad ass.
Weaknesses:
If you ride in mud, buy new tires. Rear disc vibration. (problem fixed though,even if it's a cheesy one)Treks slooooooooow response.Wierd creaking.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro, Sugar.
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for: Race Face hi riser,XTR shifts,XTR rear D, and a good set of "mud diggers" that's it.
Bottom Line:
Great riding fun f**kin bike. Just get "their" brake problem fixed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad Fiest
a Racer
from calhoun,ga Date Reviewed: August 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
East Ridge Bicycle
Strengths:
Climbs like Armstrong in the Alps, Great color scheme (the man in Black. front shock really soaks it up.the bike just feals good.
Weaknesses:
Bontrager crank and bottom bracket sucks!!!!!! LBS had to replace with Shimano LX compents Rear cassette and all. Like to have killed me twice with the chain suck. Chain kept getting jamed between the chain ring and the chain stay. The tires (what can I say only good for going straight, wont hang in a curve at all, and really pack in the mud.) The brake pads work good on the first ride but by the third ride you need new ones.
Bike Setup:
factory
Bottom Line:
This is a all around good buy for the money. when compared to the Sugar series bike you get the same thing as the Sugar (check the specs).Just change the tires as soon as you get. Also take it back to the shop after first ride and have them change the crank and bottom bracket. Even if you don't have trouble on the first ride you will eventully. Don't worry about cost Trek covers this under warrenty.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Brandenburg
a Cross Country Rider
from Hinsdale,IL USA Date Reviewed: August 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
palos
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
american cycling and fitness
Strengths:
A very fast, agile bike for tight single track. The way the bike climbs is fantastic, better than most hardtails I have ridden
Weaknesses:
Loud creaking noises than came from god only knows where. Cracked seat tube that broke way after the noise started. The Rolf satelites still straight which shows I'm not to hard on it. Even for a 200lb rider.
Similar Products Used:
homegrown, cannondale, moab 1, Barracuda
Bike Setup:
XT through out with raceface crank and bottom bracket
Bottom Line:
A great bike that still has some bugs to work out. Trek as been fantastic so far about a replacement. No questions asked, so it will be interesting to see if there is a continuing problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Niels Nijland
a Cross Country Rider
from Netherlands Date Reviewed: August 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
single track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
sponsered dutch Trek MTB team
Strengths:
The whole bike, except the front suspension
Weaknesses:
The front suspension
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000 2 times (the 2000 and 1999 model), Hagan titanal, Mongoose, Trek 950, Giant Stonebraker
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Judy SL front suspension. Ritchey brakes. Ritchey WCS tires. Rolf Dolomite wheelset. Onza barends, Rooxs seatpost.
Bottom Line:
After we'ved chanched the front suspension in to a Rock Shox the bike rides realy great.
If I had to name one little thing, it will be the weight of the bike. But with the other wheelset and the light tires and the new suspension fork, we won about a half a Kg.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darren
a
from Philadelphia,PA Date Reviewed: August 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
TREK has a fix for the rear disc squeal and shudder!
Bottom Line:
After seeing the reviews below and realizing there was a problem with my bike not just me. I e-mailed Trek and informed my LSB. Well I got an e-mail back from Trek in less than 24 hours and by the time I did the local sales rep had already shipped my LSB the fix kit. Call your LSB and tell them to contact Trek and get rid of that horrible noise!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DCheck
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia, PA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Local: Anything at Middle Run, DE Overall: Fantasy Island - Tuscon, AZ
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Guys Bicycles - Feasterville, PA
Strengths:
Climbs great, comfortable ride and geometry. Great value. Good looks. Just plain fun to ride!!
Weaknesses:
THE BRAKES!!!! This is the only complaint I have about this bike, but it is BAD. My LBS could not figure it out, but after reading the other reviews, I am just happy it is not just my bike. As I said to Trek in my e-mail to their customer service department, the noise is so bad, no one wants to ride near me! This problem MUST be fixed by Trek, and soon! Also, the stock tires were a joke.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR. Used to ride a Trek 5000 hardtail.
Bike Setup:
Stock w/ Disc option except for, SID XC 80mm, Specialized Team control tires, Selle Italia TI Gel saddle, and RaceFace alloy riser bar.
Bottom Line:
Overall, I love this bike. I am more comfortable and ride better than ever before. The bike is a great deal for the money and is the perfect FS bike for me, and a great FS for anyone except the serious racer. However, like many other reviews mention, the noise and vibration from the rear brake is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE. Trek needs to fix this before I lose faith in my favorite bike company. The bike would get a 5 chili overall if not for the brake problem. However, at this point I would still reccomend this smooth climbing bad-ass off-road rig!! The
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pedro
a Cross Country Rider
from N. CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
El Corta de Madera Creek OSP
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Summit
Strengths:
Rear suspension dials in easily, excellent climber, neutral handling, surprisingly solid wheels, SXR fork is very adjustable, all-around excellent bike for all XC riding
Weaknesses:
Disc brakes squeal and shudder. Various clicks and creaks. Cheap BB, chain, cassette and tires in stock form.
Similar Products Used:
Test-rode various F/S bikes by: Ellsworth, Kona, Rocky Mountain, Cannondale Jekyl, Klein, Specialized, Aeon, and Marin. This Trek replaced a Santa Cruz Heckler.
Bike Setup:
Fuel 90, disk brakes, stiff spring/elastomer kit in fork, bar ends, Michelin tires, BB-ES70 bottom bracket, Shimano chain & cassette, dust covers on shocks, mostly stock.
Bottom Line:
Excellent handling XC bike with very predictable suspension. This is a great ride for a first F/S if you're coming off a hardtail. Both the front and rear end can be dialed to almost any taste. Some of the drivetrain components need to go (chain, cassette, possibly the crankset) and I don't understand the need for all the Bontrager bits on it. Would prefer to see some better shifting Shimano rings up front. The disc brakes STOP in all conditions, but the noise is unacceptable. Mine hasn't been as bad as other people have said, but it's still anoying. The stock tires are pretty bad. The Dolomite wheels have been amazing! When I took the bike home, I built up a set of proper 32 spoke wheels on disc hubs, expecting to destroy the Rolf wheels in one or two rides. Four months later and the wheels are perfect. This was a BIG surprise. I test rode just about everything I could get a leg over before buying my Fuel. After a LOT of shopping, I settled on the Fuel as having the best-feeling rear suspension: It's the best I've ever ridden. I picked the 90 because I wanted discs and DID NOT want the tubeless tires that come on the 98 and 100. I wish I had skipped the discs and gone with one of the better spec'd models. Overall, this is an excellent XCFS bike, perfect for those who can have only one XC bike. Don't get the discs, and upgrade as things wear, and you'll be happy with this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dean Mullin
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton, AB, Canada Date Reviewed: August 10, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
United Cycle
Strengths:
Suspension works well when properly set up. Rolf wheels perform well.
Weaknesses:
Stock tires were an atrocity. Rear triangle creak can't be found - this scares me. Stock crankset and BB needed replacement because of bad chain line. Rear disc shudder is intermittent. Three Bottle cages - two of them quite useless (uppermost too close to top tube and the adjacent cage, bottom one acts as a dirt catcher). Stock saddle would be more at home on a horse drawn plow.
Similar Products Used:
Raced hardtails for seven years (GT Zaskar, TREK, Specialized SWorks). First FS.
Bike Setup:
Avocet O2 - 40R saddle. Shimano crankset and BB. Assorted rubber - anything but the stock tires. Otherwise stock for now. Replaced bars.
Bottom Line:
I have not needed to replace so many parts on a bike out-of-the-box ever before. This bike was not set up properly. The retailer has been quite helpful in this regard. While the suspension works, the creaking and shuddering leave me lacking confidence in the bike. This is a serious problem. If you don't trust that your bike is safe and capable, you can't ride it to your limits.
My early glee with the suspension performance has been eroded by ongoing problems. It is my opinion that all of the problems originate in the design and manufacture. I am starting to wish this bike would go away and leave me alone. If I can iron out the nagging faults I may regain some confidence in the bike.
This is the third Trek I have owned. I will return to GT or Specialized next time around.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Graeme
a Weekend Warrior
from Gold Coast, Australia Date Reviewed: August 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Palm Beach Cycles, Gold Coast Australia
Strengths:
Love the ride. Easy to set up. Haven't had any problems with the rear disk vibrating as some others have had. The bike loves single track and climbs heaps better than my previous Trek which was a 97 hardtail. Loving the Rolf Dolomite Disc wheels with the Hayes hydraulic brakes. Bontrager seat is really comfortable.
Weaknesses:
The Bontrager cranks & rings. Having problems with the SRAM chain but that's getting replaced soon for an XT one. Bontrager seat post had to be replaced as it kept moving around and the replacement one which is the same has been fine.
Similar Products Used:
Tried Specialized FSR, Jekyll.
Bike Setup:
Psylo SL set at 100mm, XT hollowtech cranks, rings, BB, 12-34 rear casette, Hayes hydralulic brakes, every thing else as per brochure.
Bottom Line:
Excellent ride and for where I ride 3 inches of rear wheel travel is fine. The bike isn't designed for huge drop offs or full on down hilling but it goes great for what it was designed for, cross country riding. Swap out the Bontrager bits & pieces for Shimano and you're set, why Trek keep using some of the Bontrager stuff has me puzzled as I haven't read or heard too many positive comments about it.(I know they own them) Value rating I gave 4 chilis as it's a Trek & they are expensive and would have given 5 if it came with better cranks etc. 5 chilis overall as now I've got it set up the way I want it I really enjoy the ride of it. It's an excellent bike that I would have no trouble recommending.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay P
a Racer
from Simi Valley, CA Date Reviewed: August 6, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Chatsworth Cyclery
Strengths:
Great power transfer for a full suspension frame. Soaks up bumps with ease.
Weaknesses:
Rear disk brake vibration... SOLVED IT!!!
Bike Setup:
Stock disk version. Bontrager Race bar ends. Lizard Skins shock boot.
Bottom Line:
Ok, we've all heard the hype and good things about the line of Fuel bikes, but what about this irritating brake vibration on disk versions? Well, I don't know if you can accurately classify the problem as solved, but it worked.
I went out and bought a set of one of the best mechanical disk brakes made... the Avid Mechanical. The Avid caliper actually weighs a little more than the Hayes caliper, about 30g heavier, but over all it's lighter when you consider the weight of the master cylinder/lever and hydraulic fluid filled brake lines. I believe that the added weight of the caliper was just enough to dampen the vibration that these bikes incur at any speed, even as low as 3mph. It was a fix that gave me nearly even power as the Hayes with slightly less modulation... a trade off that I'm willing to take to solve the irritating and potentially dangerous vibration. Vibrations WILL loosen bolts and weaken joints over time. Sell the Hayes or put them on another bike. You can pick up a pair of Avid's for $165... yes, front and rear! A great deal and a solution to this problem.
Overall, the Fuel 90 is a great bike! 5 chili's if it weren't for the brake problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy Jenkins
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Rosa Date Reviewed: August 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Any single track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1445.00
Purchased At:
Bike Peddler Santa Rosa
Strengths:
Great climber, light, good looking & frame geometry. The suspension is perfect. It's soft enough coming down and you don't loose anything going up.
Weaknesses:
Bontrager Comp Cranks & bottom bracket. My middle chain ring was bent the first day. Brake pads seem a little weak.
NOTE to FUEL owners with creaks.
I had a creaking sound coming from the bottom bracket area. Took it to the shop three times. They never fixed it. It turns out it was the pivot near the bottom bracket. I tightened it up and now - beautiful silence.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NSR2,NSR1
Bike Setup:
Stock - I did replace the cranks with XT
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike for the frame and wheels. Replace the components later. The only regret I have is that I didn't get the disk brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Vernon Ct. USA Date Reviewed: August 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
nepaug
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Manchester Cycle
Strengths:
Stiff frame, can easily keep weight back
Weaknesses:
Broke 1 frame at seat tube, chain would come off when ratchetting, tires
Similar Products Used:
GT Hardtails
Bike Setup:
like it was sold to me, changed tires, shorter bottem bracket added a rockring. want to replace shock eventually
Bottom Line:
Having a blast riding this bike. Carts my 6'4" 215 lb lardbut around o.k. Frame was replaced rellatively quickly and free of charge. How do you cover scratches on powder hardcoat?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Single*Track
a Cross Country Rider
from Redmond,OR USA Date Reviewed: August 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Any deserving a second ride
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Tested at Sunnyside Sports, Bend Oregon
Strengths:
I opted for no disc brakes. Lightweight, took a beating through logs, rocks, steep hard downhill, fully tested for a hard and heavy ride. This bike climbs like a dream. Solid performer to the way I ride and my body weight. Yeah Trek!!
Weaknesses:
Very difficult to dial in the rear suspension in the field. I thought the bike was a bit stiff so I bled out a whisp of air and bammmmm...out of gas...had to reload in the field and it was a bit difficult. Not a design flaw but a rider error. Dial it in and don't touch. I prefer to adjust my saddle height on climbs and descents. Would like to install a quick release for that purpose.
Similar Products Used:
Viewed the 100, looked at Klein, just settled on the looks and simplicity of the 98. Also considered the Cannondale 700 LTD.
Bike Setup:
Stock with V-brakes. No fancies.
Bottom Line:
I ride a Cannondale low end Super V 500. It has been a workhorse and dependable bike for me. Once I straddled over the 98, I was impressed with the feel immediately. Four pound weight difference, firmer more manageable ride, climbed so much more gracefully than the 'beast'. I put it to a max downhill with no reserve or concern for what the bike would do. This bike took the bumps, jumps, and corners like it was on auto pilot. Swwwwweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet ride and definitely a killer bike for the money. Again, this was only a test ride and I know once I get the bike dialed in to the way I ride, I could kick my girlfriend to the curb and marry this sweet thing. Goodbye Cannondale, Hello Trek.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DD
a Cross Country Rider
from Syracuse Date Reviewed: July 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
south campus
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Awesome goeometry and rear suspension design, especially it seems for big riders.
Weaknesses:
brake vibration, and frame failure
Similar Products Used:
Klein adept race, sugar
Bike Setup:
90 disc stock.
Bottom Line:
Wow! All right, I had my 90 frame break, and the 100 cracked. BUT, I had awesome service from Trek, turned them around in a matter of days. I think these bikes are awesome, I especially liked the 100 but the 90 was good too. You could really hammer with them. I hope they fix this seat post thing, why did they ever put that stupid extension on? For the record, the Klein adept pro has absolutely no braking problems as described. I had that vibration with both fuels and the klein uses the exact same set up. Very weird. I wouldn't hesitate to buy the fuel if it fits. It really is awesome, very plush. I give the disc option 5 chili's because the coponents set up on the klein are fantastic, and the overall reflects the bikes performance which really was just awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duane
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary Date Reviewed: July 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Rockies, Purcells
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
Good climber, smooth suspension, reasonably light. It is my first FS bike, and a pretty easy transition. I have not had complaints about the stock tires as others, but that sometimes depends on terrain. I generally ride root-infested, rocky, long, steep singletrack.
Weaknesses:
Rear disk vibration driving me crazy. Trek is supposed to have the "fix" available by early August. We'll see. Trek would not sell a stock Fuel 100 with disks so that higher end components and Fox suspension with dampening could be had without significant costs.
Similar Products Used:
Used to ride a Rocky Mtn Blizzard. Better quality bike with better components, but hardtails get rough on more "seasoned" riders.
Bike Setup:
Stock Fuel, except changed Manitou to a SID SL (80mm). For me, a great shock. Put on an XT BB, and Monkeylite riser handlebars.
Bottom Line:
Trek had better get the fix for the rear disk out soon, or the great American bike company is going to have one serious legend to live down. All bike magazine reviews I now consider bogus - if those supposed pro-riders could not find out that disk problem in a few riding hours as I did, they must be writing the reviews after a few tequilas instead. Beyond the disk vibe, and hopefully the fix, it seems to be a great XC bike for technical riding. I definately have picked up the downhill pace with it, and have learned how to ride a bike without using the rear brake.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathaniel
a Weekend Warrior
from Wheaton, Il, U.S. Date Reviewed: July 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
almost any mtb. trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Spokes
Strengths:
Rolf wheels, sweet geometry, very comfortable seat, just about everything except.......
Weaknesses:
......tires.....annoying creaking sound from seat(my bike magically fixed itself :)
Similar Products Used:
none.
Bike Setup:
Stock except easton monkey lite bars, and panaracer fire xc tires.
Bottom Line:
If you got $1400 to spend on the best fs xc bike there is buy the Trek Fuel 90 w/ out disc brakes. This bike is so sweet on climbs, descends, and just about anything else. My friends on hardtails are jealous of my bike when descending on technical terrain also beacause the weight is very descent. 5 flaming chilis for this sweet bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keon Bernier
a Weekend Warrior
from Belleville Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: July 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Any MTB Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Doug's Bicycle
Strengths:
I started Mtb'ing with a hard tail and when I saw ads in Bicyling magazine for the Trek Fuel, I had to have it. The rear shock dampens pretty much everything you go over, without losing the feel for the terain. Different style to riding a hardtail..but all for the better. Stock saddle is very comfy, and the rolf rims don't really get much better..for the total package. And of course it looks mean (cool) with the carcoal black and grey detailing...gotta look good too!
Weaknesses:
Right now the only thing I am having a little problem with is the front derailer..but that will improve with some tweaking.
Similar Products Used:
My previous mountain bike before this was a Trek 6500 hard tail..I miss it already.
Bike Setup:
Pretty much as it came from the manufacturer. Lx front and XT rear components, Rolf wheels, Bontranger everything else I believe.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line, haven't stopped smiling...yet. I love it and have made my cycling partner jeoulous which is fun also. As far as the bike goes, no complaints just praises, email me and I will inform. The bike itself needs to take a beating and it has so far, I am an avid rider, the 6500 made it out alive and so far the fuel is exactly what I needed. More speed, smoothness, equals way, way more control...so don't be afraid the full suspension is everything you have heard, and more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jaap de Jong
a Weekend Warrior
from Purmerend Date Reviewed: July 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Schoorl Holland
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Tromm Tweewielers Amsterdam
Strengths:
Comfort, weight, stiffness.
Weaknesses:
low bracket
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
replaced wheels for my old ones because I wanted te use my Formula B4 Diskbrakes.
Bottom Line:
I was a hardtailer, driving a 2000 trek 6500, upgraded with Formula B4 hydraulic Disk brakes. As soon as I layed eyes on the Trek Fuel 90 I was in love and wanted it. After some thinking i traded in my old hardtail buddy and purchased the Fully. This bike rocks, it's so easy to drive and throw in all directions. At first you won't even feel there is a rear suspension on it and you feel dissapointed. Once it's used for ten minutes, the Fox Float damper does its work like it's supposed to. Just smoothening the surface for you without making you seasick. The ride is so comfertable you can stay in your seat without being thrown off.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Sibilla
a Weekend Warrior
from Grand Rapids Date Reviewed: July 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Yankee Springs
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Kentwood Schwinn
Strengths:
Great Frame Geometry, Excelent Cross Country Ride, Light weight weels give it a very low unsprung weight.
Weaknesses:
Bontrager Crank
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn S20
Bike Setup:
Bone Stock with the exception of Bontrager Magnesium Bar Ends.
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike in February and tired unsuccessfully to wait for the thaw in my area. From early March on the bike has been on every trail I can find and is usually covered in dirt. This bike is phenomenal!! I did bend the center chain ring early on but that was replaced without much fuss. I am a weekend warrior but this bike makes me ride and look much better than that. I rarley miss a climb. Bob? who is Bob? Bob does not live here? No Bob here. Wrong number. Get the picture? I have had a little creaking from the frame though but that is quickly remedied with a little lubrication.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Les Edlington
a Weekend Warrior
from Birmingham, England Date Reviewed: July 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Sandwell Valley
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1274.00
Purchased At:
Keswick mountain bikes
Strengths:
Lightweight, comfy saddle ( I am a bit of a softy )cool looks. I also got a good deal for England 30% discount because shops are not shifting their full suspension bikes because at the moment many trails are out of bounds due to foot and mouth disease. Its my first full suspension bike so consequently found the ride very comfortable on the rough stuff I ride on, which is not that technical, compared to my hardtail.
Weaknesses:
Had a few problems with the front gears not changing smoothly but ironed them out with some minor adjustments. I have limited mountain bike experience so have little to compare it with therefore some of the problems other riders mention have not been noticed by me.
Similar Products Used:
None. I do ride a Kona Pahoehoe as well but being a hardtail I cannot compare the two.
Bike Setup:
Just as it comes from the shop, I have the V brake version, with the addition of crud guards and snake skins at points that I normally scratch or wear the bike.
Bottom Line:
I like the bike and have found the change over from hardtail to full suspension no problem. The rides seem so much smoother therefore the bike achieves its aim. The trail I have mainly ridden the bike on is through a country park which is mainly shale roads ( fire Roads )and several sections of cross country. I have also used the bike on the roads and have noticed very little difference between my hardtail times and the full suspension. It could be something for one of the magazines to test to see if inexperienced riders who are not tackling the technical trails would be better off with a bike that does not have a large amount of travel as I have found the bike ajoy to ride. In the summer holidays I hope to do more technical riding in the Lake District and Scotland providing the trails are opened after the foot and mouth crisis. Therefore I should have a better idea of the bikes performance. I feel that the bike would suit most riders even those carrying a bit of extra weight like myself, 14 stone, ( 196 pounds to the yanks ). Apologies for my lack of technical knowledge and not being able to go into technical detail about brakes, weight of wheels etc but I prefer to get out and ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yasin
a
from California Date Reviewed: July 10, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop
Strengths:
Climbs very well. I love the long top tube.
Weaknesses:
This is where I lay into it... I took a 5 day vacation to Moab with my 4 month old Trek, and had the top tube completely shear at the seat tube weld, when I was half way through my very first ride!!!! Ever had to walk in race shoes? Now, had I abused the bike beforehand... I could potentially unterstand.... but the Rolf Satellite wheels are still perfectly straight, which is a good indicator to me that I have been relatively kind. After visiting the Poison Spider bike shop in Moab, the mechanic told me that was the 3rd one he's seen break in the exact same spot. Amazingly enough, I hapened to be rolling slowly when I heard the loud, "ting," sound that caught my attention. Had I been blasting down the hill, I would have been seriously injurred. I finished my vacation on a rented bike; an extra $130 I didn't particularly want to spend. My local bike shop, whose service is fantastic, was apologizing all over themselves when I brought the bike in. They sent the bike out the same day. Today it is 4 weeks later, and they STILL haven't received the bike back from Trek! I've e-mailed Trek twice in the 4 weeks, and I haven't ever received a response. NEVER BUY A TREK!!!! Prior to the catastrophic failure of my frame, I too was victim to the squeeking from the seat post reinforcement tube. I was going to squirt some oil down the tube and hang it upside down (so the oil doesn't end up at the bottom bracket, and will lubricate the reinforcing tube) to solve the problem.
Similar Products Used:
Assorted hard tails, assorted FS bikes including GT's and Specialized... demos on Yeti's.
Bike Setup:
If you are going to keep the bike... pull out the spring elastomer from the fork and throw it out. Replace it with the spring only out of a Manitou X-Vert Carbon... it will work much better.
Bottom Line:
Value would be not that bad if it wasn't a hazard... but due to the liklihood that you will lose a gonad, it gets the lowest rating possible. Too bad I can't take away flaming chilies. I will NOT ride the bike again, when I do get it back... if ever. It's not worth the risk. Save your cash... get a good bike, like a Santa Cruz, Ventana, Titus, Ellsworth, etc. If you have to buy a cheaper FS bike, I know that GT's support is a whole lot better (too bad their bikes ride like tanks and climb like crap). If you're still interested... I'll be selling mine in the coming weeks; XL size frame.
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