2009 trek fuel ex 8 review

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Trek Fuel EX 8 2009 review

Posted by Tony | March 9, 2009 | 36 comments so far

Well I’ve now had my Trek Fuel EX 8 for two months and after numerous of rides around Surrey and two trips to South Wales finest trails I have no doubts that the Trek Fuel EX 8 was a very good buy.

Like most of us I guess that my new-bike-decision-making process is a mix of pouring over new bike reviews in the MTB mags, bike fondling at the LBS, nabbing rides of mates bikes and maybe even attending a demo day. The Trek Fuel EX 8 got good reviews and was on the top of my bike list along with a few usual suspects, the Orange 5, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR, Commencal Meta 5.5, Lapierre Zesty. All 4-5inch full sussers which fitted the bill for my requirements of a bike for the more gnarly Surrey tracks and frequent trips to the South Wales MTB centres.

The only ones I could get a test ride on were the Orange (thanks Matt), Trek and Specialized, so the Commencal and Lapierre were out of the reckoning – well, would you buy a bike without riding it? The Orange was next out since my bike shop owning friend Guy at Pearson Cycles couldn’t source one, which was a pity since I’m a big fan of Orange.

That left the Trek and Specialized. Both are good bikes but the Specialized just didn’t do it for me, plus for my size Trek did an ‘in between’ size 17.5 – 18.5 – 19.5 that was just right for me.

Then it was the delicious business of looking through the specs for the right model. The choices for me were EX 7, EX 8 or EX 9. The EX 7 is good value for money but I wanted the Fox Float on the EX 8 rather than the Rockshox Recon on the EX 7.

The EX 8 seemed to be the right one for me, with a Fox Float front fork, Fox RP2 rear shock, plus SLX drivetrain, Juicy 5’s and mainly Bontrager in-house finishing kit the spec had no weak points that I could see. On the other hand, the EX 9 was another £450 for an XT drivetrain and a few small shock upgrades. This was the point where the law of diminishing returns was too much for my pocket. Most of the recent drivetrain reviews report SLX being too close in performance to XT to justify this expense.

Lastly, the all-important colour choice – would it be black and white or ‘Root Beer’. Root beer is a strange orangy-brown and although Colin has gone 1970’s British Leyland retro with his Dialled Alpine, for me this was the easiest decision of the whole bike buying process. No way was I having root beer!

Getting the EX 8 back home I showed the bike to my five year old. His reaction was ‘Dad, cool bike – that’s what a Clone Trooper (Star Wars) would ride!’ It has to be said, aesthetically Trek seem to have got this bike just right . I’ve had lots of comments about how good this bike looks and no negative comments (or you Moles have been too polite!) and more than one person has asked me if it’s carbon rather than aluminium, I guess due to the high level of tube manipulation.

In fact Trek seem to have upped their game right across their ranges in terms of bike looks. The best bits for me on the EX 8 are the sculptured magnesium linkage, which looks like it could come from a far more expensive bike, plus the rear drop out pivot which cleans up the whole dropout area. Although the legend ‘free floater’ on the non-drive chainstay – lets be polite – probably hasn’t traveled across the Atlantic with the same meaning. It does give me a chuckle every time I ride it.

Talking of ride, how does it ride? Well after only one ride fettling shock pressures (easy with the super neat sag gauge) and bedding in the Fox Float, it’s been excellent since then. The suspension seems to soak up everything I can throw at it with my abilities. Supple, comfy, rigid, with no peddle bob to speak of (I never switch on the pro-pedal off road), I’ve never felt the suspension seem to bottom out.

What more could you ask for? Well it seems to climb very well too (or at least it did whilst I waited at the top of all the climbs for everyone at our recent trip to Afan and Cwmcarn) and descends to a point that I felt in complete control and as fast as anyone on the South Wales trip on the downhills. It’s only a shame that I fell over and banged my knee in the Afan carpark, but that wasn’t the Trek’s fault, just the idiot on it!

As for negative points, well if you have read my Slime Lite tube post you will know that ‘tubeless ready’ could be a contravention of consumer law. Plus the Jones XR 2.3 tyres, although fast and fairly grippy are definitely a tyre for faster hardpack than February in Surrey. Otherwise apart from a change to my favourite saddle and the addition of a nice shiny bell, I’ve made no changes – unusually for me.

So if you are looking for a 4-5inch full susser, then I can heartily recommend the Trek Fuel EX 8. Although with the 2009 model consignments mostly sold out and new imports likely to be hit by price increases, you’d best get them quick.

Filed under Bikes , Reviews in March 2009

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dominic says:

I got mt EX8 in May last year and have loved it, apart from the tyres.

Got to try the 2009 version on Suanday from Head for the Hills as mine is in for a brake sorting (warante).

Agree with everything you have said with the addition of saying that a 10 or 15mm axel on the front would realy help in some of the rockyer bits down hill.

I tryed out a wolf ridge, Enduro, DB Alpine (geting one later this year when the frames come back in stock) Orange STD4 (??!!) Giant Trance x thing and still kept coming back to the ex8.

One of the other lads I ride with got an EX9.0 after riding mine…

Add a new comment , or reply to this comment

Posted on March 10, 2009 at 9:26 am

Buying a new bike is often a slightly nervous time

Tony, judging from the number of bikes you have confessed to having in your warehouse/shed, you have nerves of steel!!

Posted on March 10, 2009 at 12:46 pm

Actually he’s a nervous wreck. His speed is down to pure nervous energy!

Posted on March 10, 2009 at 4:48 pm

It’s bicycle cognitive therapy. The only way to get over the anxiety is repeat again, again and again…

Posted on March 10, 2009 at 4:57 pm

Muddymoles says:

The most useless piece of plastic in mountain biking?

Shimano SPD plastic pedal adaptors are possibly the most pointless bit of mountain bike kit around.

Posted on March 13, 2009 at 11:48 pm

brandon rubio says:

just beginning to get into the sport. don’t know much about anything. been reading reviews and looking for as much info i could possibly find. i’ve never owned a mountain bike before. (besides the walmart specials) i think i have narrowed my decision down to the ex 7. is this a good bike to get started on? i’ve race semi-pro moto-x, so i think i have the nerve to shred up an intermediate down hill. will this bike handle some jumps, turns, bumps, ect…

you seem like a source with good info. thanks for any help.

Posted on March 26, 2009 at 3:40 pm

The Fuel Ex7 will be a great bike to start on. It’s a do anything sort of bike. I’m sure having ridden moto-X you’ll be a good bike handler and you’ll get the most out of the bike, you’ll just have to practise the (human) engine part a bit!

Posted on March 26, 2009 at 10:16 pm

brandon says:

should i spend the extra 400 or so dollars and get the fuel ex 8 or is the ex7 enough?

Posted on March 27, 2009 at 4:32 am

If you can afford the extra cash then the Ex8 is a very good deal. The Fox Float is a big step up performance wise compaired to the RockShox, although both are great bikes.

Let us know how you get on!

Posted on March 27, 2009 at 10:04 am

Just wanted to thank you for the help. You as well as this site have been a big part of my decision making process. After checking how deep my pockets were and comparing the EX 7 and 8 a little more, I opted for the 8.

Found a really good deal on it and the dealer employed some individuals that were actually into the sport (unlike the other three dealers I had spoken to). So that also helped me feel a little more comfortable about the purchase.

It had to be ordered and should be in my hands by Tuesday or Wednesday. I’ll give you guys the update as soon as I get some time on it. Needless to say I am very excited and ready to hit the trails!

This website rules!!

Posted on March 27, 2009 at 9:25 pm

Geoff Mead says:

Great to read the review of the EX8 – after years of hardtailing on a Fisher Mount Tam I am taking the plunge to a full sus. Apart from the EX8, I have Giant Trance X2 on the list, Fisher Roscoe 1 and Fisher Hi Fi Pro and maybe a Specialised Stumpy Elite. I have ridden (on road only) an EX7, but was not too impressed, specially with the weight and the R/Shox. But the 8 sounds a better bet anyway.

My problem – living in Cornwall – is that I cannot test ride any of these bikes off road – the dealers will not allow it, even if they have any of these bikes in stock (which they don’t!!).

So any ideas how I get around this? I have friends in Bristol area who ride and have been to Afan, Forest of Dean and Brecfer? with them, but do not know if there are any test centres there where I can try a bike in its proper environment.

Hope someone can help!

Posted on April 25, 2009 at 4:40 pm

I think that the best thing that you can do is get to a demo day for the Trek (Fisher too)http://www.demodaze.co.uk/site/1/297.html products if you you want to test these models in the dirt or check your (less)local bike shops to see if they have demo bikes. Lots of bike shops still have demo models. All the bikes you mention are very good. The thing that put me off the Roscoe is that it’s a fairly poor spec for the money and the fork is specific (offset) to the bike, hence this might cause replacement problems in the future. All good bikes though.

Posted on April 26, 2009 at 8:22 pm

Geoff says:

Many thanks for getting back to me, really appreciated!!

I am definitely of the opinion now that I want a bike that is Fox sus all round – did not like the Trek EX7 with R/Shox as a comparison. Will check out the demo days – who knows, there might be one only 100 miles away!!! (ie Exeter).

Do you guys do the Exmoor Explorer ?? Always first sunday of August and the most killer x country you can find – also really well organised.

Maybe see you there!!

Posted on April 26, 2009 at 9:14 pm

Hi Tony and anyone else interested in the EX8’s

I got my 2009 Fuel Ex8 a few months ago and have only ridden it 3 times!

I had a fabulous Kona Caldera hardtail that was totaled when it came off a friends roof rack, and was driven over by the 4×4 behind!

Luckily, I had good insurance, and they settled very quickly and easily. Unfortunately, the replacement bike came from South Wales, and I live in Surrey. They had to order my Trek in especially, so I couldn’t demo it first.

As you put it, I agonised over the frame size and colour before chosing. As Geoff Mead said, it’s difficult enough geting a LBS to let you demo a bike off road, even more so if you’re not going to be buying it from them.

So, I compared and checked the geometries and specs with my beloved Kona, and went for the 18.5″ frame in Root Beer.

After the first ride, I knew it was wrong. After the second ride, I knew it was wronger. It’s just to small. I’ve since ridden a friends new 19.5″ and it’s perfect. That extra inch makes all the difference!!

Unfortunately, it’s got a tiny cable rub on the seat tube, so the supplier won’t take it back for an exchange.

So, the long and short of it is, does anyone want a pristine condition 2009 Trek Fuel EX8, 18.5″ frame, in the very snazzy and striking Root Beer colour (not 1970’2 British Leyland at all) for a knock down price of £1400?

Before my short rides, the tyres, cassete, chain and grips were all replaced with my own. These are now back on, so it’s as new..

I can’t aford to make a big loss on it as I want to buy the 19.5″ ASAP, so £1400 is the lowest I could go, and that undercuts and LBS deals by a good £150 plus..

Any interest?

Posted on April 29, 2009 at 9:50 am

Damm – if only it was the other way around – ie you bought a 19.5 and it was too big!! 18.5 won’t fit me either, otherwise you would have had an instant sale.

Sorry can’t help, but I am sure you’ll find a good home for it at that price.

Posted on April 29, 2009 at 11:43 am

I hope so, as I’ve had it for a few months now and haven’t ridden it for fear of trashing it! I’m itching to get out riding again so may have to succumb to sticking in a layback seatpost and wheelieing up all the hills!

Any ideas of other good sites to post my adverts on? I’ve already got ads on bikeradar

http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=12620543

and singletrackworld

http://www.singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/fs-or-swap-brand-new-trek-fuel-ex8-185-for-195#post-325444

and help would help

Posted on April 29, 2009 at 2:40 pm

Thanks everyone for your interest, advice and offers of swaps.

I’ve sold my old Trek, and have now ordered my new, larger, Trek..

Posted on April 30, 2009 at 9:15 pm

I hope that you enjoy your 19inch Fuel Ex8. Not many manufacturers make models in such small increment steps – this is probably a case of a manufacturer giving too much choice in your case!

Posted on April 30, 2009 at 9:43 pm

Trek Dan says:

I bought my EX8 from Pedal On in Tadley (UK). As this is one of the best bikes out there i found that no one would discount it for a cash sale. So Pedal on it was due to their podium points scheme. £350 worth of free bike bits. New shoes (ones that I would never pay £100 for), helmet, camel bak etc.

Just becarful of sizes of the Fuels.

I am 5ft 10″ and tried a 17.5 Virtual/16.5 Actual and this felt fine, but I got my girlfriend to take a picture to check my riding position and it was totally wrong. Went for the 18.5 virtual/17.5 Actual and OH MY GOD THE BIKE IS AMAZING.

I used to ride a Giant Trance 2 2006 and loved it until I started doing more XC based rides so looked for a hardtail. Bought a hardtail and then relised that I needed a full sus for wales and hardtail for XC riding but didn’t want 2 bikes so got the EX8 as it is light (28.4lbs with crank bro candys on) and got top reviews.

Wouldn’t be surprised if this or the Lapierre Zesty gets bike of the year.

Posted on May 4, 2009 at 6:23 pm

Glad you like it too. It is a double edge sword of Trek to offer so many sizes since it gives you more choices which can be wrong, or right. Being a bit of a roadie too I always go by the effective (horizontal) top tube length since this is a constant frame measurement and the best way of giving you the correct fit and feel. I have a 19inch Clockwork Orange, an On-One Inbred and the Trek. All with the same effective TT but all with different “frame” sizes due to slope of the top tube.

Yes no discounts (unless you have a mate with a cycle shop – thanks Guy – Pearson Cycles) and next years will be quite alot more expensive. Have you seen the price increases in Shimano prices.

Posted on May 4, 2009 at 8:39 pm

Yes, 25%+ on this years price.

I exprect the frame to be the same and the components to be Deore/SLX.

Posted on May 5, 2009 at 7:26 am

Ride report: Wednesday 6 May – Pitch (Hill) and a Pint

The Moles resurrect their popular Pitch and a Pint night rides over Pitch Hill.

Posted on May 7, 2009 at 12:44 pm

TrekDan says:

Has anyone experienced creaking on the rear pivot from new?

I found last night that neither the upper or lower pivot rods that hold the rear shock are greased. Should they be?

I have greased them both and the noise has gone and it runs perfectly.

Could Trek have missed this during construction?

The only thing I am now worried about is the rods shaft has some ruts and rub marks from the inside of the shock bushing.

Does anyone have contact details for Trek so I can get a new pair of rods to replace the damaged ones?

Posted on May 7, 2009 at 1:06 pm

I did get some creaking from the shock pivot bushings when I got the Trek new. Neither were greased but I suspect that since these are bushings they don’t need to be. That was during the really frozen / snowy snap earlier this year. I suspected that this might have been due to the different metals freezing at different rates. I tightened up the shock bushes and when the weather warmed up the creak went. It’s been almost silent (for a full susser) since then. One of the guys out last night had a particularly noisy gaint which reminded me how quiet my Trek is.

Posted on May 7, 2009 at 3:20 pm

Richard Bromley says:

I also am a proud owner of the EX 8 and also experienced creaking noises from the rear suss. It went away after a few rides, so I presumed was all part of bedding in etc??. But what I did get at weekend after completing the Dyfi Enduro (this was only 6th time I had ridden bike) was that one of the securing bolts for the rear suss had come loose.

Only noticed when I picked bike up by seat post and felt some play in suspension. Took it back to LBS as only had a few weeks. They confirmed that bolt was loose and checked out for damage to bushings etc. They said that I should periodically check.

Now from my side I would have thought that those bolts are pre-torqued at man’f and would be checked by LBS before selling. And would not expect them to come loose after a few rides.

Anyway no damage done but guess could have been a lot worse if something happened during mid race.

But well pleased with bike !!!

Posted on May 7, 2009 at 4:28 pm

Peter Capparelli says:

Hi, all fellow bike riders!

I read with interest all comments on Trek EX bikes, I decided to go the route of buying an EX 7 after testing it out. I bought it in February a week before going out to Spain for a weeks biking, I found that I could not get on with it. I was told that a 17.5 was my size (height 5’9).

After returning home I took it in for it’s first service, back to where I bought the bike, Phil Corley Cycles in Milton Keynes. I decided that I would go for tubeless set up at the same time so left it with them to complete along with first service, went to pick the bike up a few days later but it was not ready. I was going away that wk-end to the South Coast, so I was given a loan bike, an 18.5″ EX 8.

As you can imagine this was just perfect I was riding the way I felt a bike like this would merit, my friends also commented on this, so on my return I went back to the bike store & said that I would like to exchange my EX 7 for an EX 8. It cost me an additional £400, but it was worth it!

I can only say that they have been very accommodating, I would highly reccomend them.

Pete, Harpenden

Posted on May 14, 2009 at 4:15 pm

Guys, here is an update on my pivot problem. Two fantastic rides down and no creak after the pivot bolt and bushes were greased. Also had this response from Trek customer services.

Thanks for the email. What I would do is have your local dealer where you purchased the bike do a warranty claim on the damaged pivot bolt and they can then apply the proper lub and loctite on the bolts once they have the new ones. I hope this helps, thanks and have a great day.

Posted on May 14, 2009 at 10:54 pm

Hi guys, I’m interested in an EX 8 at the moment but cant get out for a test ride for a while due to a broken leg.

What sizing would you recommend from your experiences, Im 6’1″ but have reletivley short inside leg of about 31″.

Thanks for your help.

Posted on May 24, 2009 at 11:28 am

At 6’1” I’d definitely say a 19 to get the reach. Although reading the previous posts should tell you one thing – try before you buy! Get to a demo day.

Posted on May 24, 2009 at 8:59 pm

2010 Trek Fuel EX 8 review

A comparison of 2010 Trek Fuel EX 8 specifications versus the 2009 model

Posted on September 8, 2009 at 12:19 am

Ahhh! chainsuck!!!

What is chainsuck and why do some bikes suffer from it more than others. The answer is not as simple as you’d think

Posted on January 12, 2010 at 12:03 am

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Trek Fuel EX 8 review – still one of the best trail MTBs?

Trek’s alloy fuel ex trail mountain bike lacks the latest features but is the overall package still a winner.

BikePerfect Verdict

Heavy frame that misses the latest features but still a great package for fast and precise all round mountain biking

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We'll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

Trek’s Fuel EX has been one of the best mountain bikes in the world for years, but the alloy-framed 8 is lacking some of the features the latest alloy and carbon Treks. High-durability component spec matches the vibe of a really well-balanced bike. One that plans ahead, hands its homework in early (having double checked it) and rarely puts a wheel wrong or goads you into being silly yourself. So how has Trek done that and is there a better option in the range if you want something short on travel but big on fun?

Design and aesthetics

Trek has been using a rocker link-driven, vertical shock suspension design on its bikes for so long that “Looks like a Trek Session” is a cliche on most MTB forums. No surprise then that the Fuel EX continues the clean looks which leave plenty of room for a big bottle on the down tube and strap-on storage. You don’t get the internal storage of the newer Top Fuel alloy frame though and this older frame still uses a press-fit bottom bracket rather than reverting to a more reliable threaded format. There are ISCG chain keeper tabs on the BB though, a wider-angle Knock Block steering limiter to stop bars hitting the frame in a crash and rear axle concentric ABP rear suspension pivot. Cunning zip tie tabbed ‘Control Freak’ internal cable routing and rubber frame armor including molded chainstay sleeves keep things quiet.

You also get the 0.5-degree geometry change ‘Mino Link’ flip chip at the seat stay/rocker pivot. That changes head angle from 65.5- to 65-degrees and effective seat angle from 75.5- to 75-degrees on the Large I tested. Reach also shifts from 475 to 470mm and BB height drops from 346 to 340mm. The big win with choosing a Trek though is the sheer range of sizes from XXS to XXL including a sweet spot ML in the centre. Smaller bikes also run 27.5in wheels for proportional balance, too, although the chainstays are the same length on all frame sizes. The Fuel EX 8 is also available in three different two-tone color options.

Specification

Trek acknowledges that the ‘priority is on the parts’ with the EX 8 and the highlight is an almost complete Shimano XT drivetrain (the chain is SLX). The Fox Float shock is a custom unit, too, using a Penske race car derived RE:aktiv damper setup for a pert-pedaling feel on top of the 130mm travel. The 140mm Fox 34 fork is the stock Rhythm spec though and the Shimano brakes are basic four-piston MT400s. Bontrager’s functional Line component range completes the bike in well-judged, size-specific cockpit options although dropper post strokes are short on the larger sizes. Big volume versions of Bontrager’s XR5 and XR4 tires on Bontrager Line Comp 30mm internal rims put plenty of air between bike and trail for protection, too.

Performance

While the EX8 isn’t light at just under 15kg (a full kilo heavier than Trek claims) it’s in the ballpark for a mid-travel, alloy-framed bike at this price. What really stands out is how well it hides that weight when it comes to pedaling. The big tires don’t drag nearly as much as they look like they might, while the RE:aktiv shock and overall kinematic give it a really clean, crisp and stable platform to put down power from. That means even with three potential low-compression settings to play with, we rarely felt compelled to flick it out of full open unless we were hoofing uphill out of the saddle. Add the clean shifting, top-quality Shimano XT drivetrain and the Fuel EX is a great choice for high-mileage rides and riders. The fast-engaging ‘Rapid Drive’ freehub and relatively high ground clearance are a bonus for anyone who likes to kick hard out of corners or attack rough technical climbs, too. The efficient suspension feel still gives enough sensitivity to track the ground under power and you can drop pressures in the big tires if you’re into a proper ‘crawler/swamper’ feel.

The 140mm fork/130mm rear travel feels well balanced on the trail and the Grip damper Fox Rhythm repeatedly proved why its our favorite cost-effective fork. Trek’s suspension calculator is accurate enough to get most people sorted on set-up for most situations. The angles and proportions of the model we tested were confident at speed on jumps but still turned in promptly on woodland twisters. Even the basic Shimano brakes feel better than normal through the neutral suspension responses created by the ABP pivot and the 200mm rotor up front boosts power, too.

While you could speed up reactions with a shorter stem, the stock setup probably suits its overall character better. That’s because while it will pop and play off trailside opportunities if you’re in the mood, it does tend to sit on top of an already relatively high ride height rather than sucking down onto the trail and railing. Interestingly that’s a big - and counter intuitive - difference to the Top Fuel 8. With slightly steeper angles, less travel, significantly different suspension kinematic and top-spec RockShox rear shock, Trek’s pocket rocket has an addictively playful charisma that’s very much at odds with it’s ‘XC’ categorization.

In fact, despite it being heavier we’d probably opt for the Fuel EX for long marathon-style or efficiency-based events, especially as it’s significantly cheaper than its little brother, leaving you more cash for race entries and energy products. Just make sure you keep an eye on the press-fit bottom bracket and get it replaced as soon as it shows any signs of wobble/creak as that can eventually creates frame issues.

Trek’s Fuel range might be a bit backwards when it comes to assigning categories based on travel but the main thing is that the Fuel EX is still a really efficient, enjoyable and fitness/skill flattering all rounder. While it misses out on the internal storage, threaded BB and super-plush playfulness of the Top Fuel, Shimano XT will always bring a lot of hard riding boys (and girls) to the yard. Those are exactly the riders who’ll appreciate just how well this extremely well balanced bike covers ground and keeps a fresh and sharp feel long into the day, and down tough technical sections, too.

Tech Specs: Trek Fuel EX 8 XT

Price: $3,929.99 / £3,200
Discipline: Trail
Head angle: 66/66.5-degrees
Frame material: Trek Alpha Platinum Aluminum
Sizes: XS, S, M, M/L, L (tested) XL, XXL
Weight: 14.9kg
Wheel size: 29 x 2.3in
Suspension (front/rear): Fox Rhythm 34, Float EVOL 140mm travel, 44mm offset/Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv 130mm travel
Components: Shimano XT 10-51T, 12-speed gearing, shifter, chainset and cassette. Shimano SLX chain. Shimano MT400 brakes with 200/180mm rotors. Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 29 x 2.6in front and Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 29 x 2.5in rear tires on Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels. Bontrager Line 780 x 35mm bar and 50 x 35 mm stem, Bontrager Line Dropper 150mm dropper post, Bontrager Arvada saddle

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since we launched in 2019. Hatched in Yorkshire he's been hardened by riding round it in all weathers since he was a kid. He spent a few years working in bike shops and warehouses before starting writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. To make sure he rarely sleeps and to fund his custom tandem habit, he’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and talks to a GoPro for YouTube, too.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Forbidden Druid V2, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

Guy Kesteven Technical-Editor-at-Large

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Review: Trek Fuel EX8 Trail bike

The Trek Fuel EX 8 is Trek’s best selling trail bike. An enduro / all-mountain bike that promises to be very versatile with its ample travel of 130mm on the front and rear suspension, 29-inch wheels and a few smart features. With a 1×12 SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain and a 10-50 cassette, the Fuel is also well equipped for steep climbing and killer descents.

In itself, the Trek with these specs is not necessarily very different from other bikes. There are two elements that make the bike a bit more unique. That is the ABP and the Mino Link.

Circumstances

We had a short window of opportunity, just two weeks to ride the bike. I mention this because I normally like to ride a bit longer on the bike and preferably under various circumstances. Certainly for the Fuel EX 8 it would have been great to be able to ride it in a bit more mountainous terrain than we have available here in the Netherlands, nut we didn’t have that opportunity. We rode on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, a natural park area in the Netherlands with technical flow trails, much more XC than enduro. Sand and forest. We drove in dry and slightly humid weather.

You can transform the bike from a more compact, steep, upright XC geometry you can go to a wider/longer and lower DH geometry.

The feeling of the Trek on the Dutch trails was really nice. The bike is quite responsive and you can thread it easily through the trails. Not a very compact geometry, by the way, the highest position of the Mino Link is less steep than actual XC bikes (of course), and on the pieces that are faster and more downhill you can (also because of the dropper-post) sit nice and low, attack the turns and really lean your bike into them. The bike climbs well (especially with lock-out on the suspension), and its power delivery is good for an enduro bike.

As for the Active Braking Pivot: this technology has to counteract the effect that if you brake, your rear frame becomes more rigid (that happens naturally with braking action in any bike) and therefore your rear suspension does not work as well. With a stiffer rear frame you will bounce more. Trek has tackled this problem by ensuring that the back swing arm on which the brake caliper is fixed “floats” independently from the rest of the frame.

As a result, the braking action does not affect the tension on the rest of the frame and the suspension can also work freely. As a result, the bike should stay track better on the trail and you’ll be more maneuverable when it gets faster and steeper.

I have to say that I did not necessarily feel that the bike was riding or steering better due to the ABP. But that also has to do with the fact that in the two weeks we had the bike at our disposal, we could only ride in the Netherlands and that steepness, speed over rocky terrain: we just don’t have it here. Another reason to hoop that we can ride the bike again under the circumstances where it is really built for.

The bike is nice and playful, it jumps well, whether it is a built jump, a trail feature or a bunny hop, it takes air easily and landing feels safe and stable.

So what does the trek bring.

If we have not been able to properly test and review those special features such as the ABP and the MinoLink, what can we say about the bike? Well above all that riding the Fuel is just a lot of fun because it is simply a good bike. The 29-inch wheels keep speed, and despite that wheel size the bike steers through the trails really well and feels nimble. On the more bumpy, downhill parts that we do have (including brake washboards) the suspension felt nice. The back suspension has the Fox Performance Float EVOL that can be set in three positions, and in front of the Fox Rhythm 34 Float. I also rode a few stairs (closest thing to rocky downhills) and the bike managed these smoothly and stable. The bike is nice and playful, it jumps well, whether it is a built jump, a trail feature or a bunny hop, it takes air easily and landing feels safe and stable.

Smooth, clean and versatile

I really liked the Bontrager XR4 Team Issue tires, with a lot of grip and sufficient speed. The aluminum frame is what you can expect from such a frame, and together with the SRAM and other Bontrager components (Bontrager is part of Trek and actually their component brand) the bike weighs around 14 kilos. Not exceptionally light but not too heavy either.

In short, a very complete and versatile bicycle of which we have not yet seen the complete potential. The Trek Fuel does well on trails in the Netherlands, but its real mountains where we expect it will really excel.

De Trek Fuel EX 8

Enduro/trail bike.

Retail price € 2.999,00

FIRST RIDE REVIEW

The new trek fuel ex review.

Photos & Words by Dario DiGiulio

As mountain biking has evolved into what it is today, the trails we ride on have slowly but surely raised the bar of what modern bikes have to keep up with. Sure, some tracks have been sanitized over time, but there’s no question that the pointy end of the sport has kept pushing forward. As a result, trail bikes have had to pick up the pace to match the expectations of the average rider, leading to more capable and confident rigs with every new model. Stepping up to the plate, we have the evolved version of the Trek Fuel EX, Trek’s mainstay trail bike. This time it’s really meant to do it all, riding anywhere and doing anything. Being this adaptable can be a tricky task though, so has Trek painted themselves into a corner?

The new Trek Fuel EX breaks just about every mold that the prior generations had fit into, with a full-on redesign for the new model. The name of the game here is adaptability, whether in the geometry, the suspension kinematics, or even what size wheels you’ll run. Thanks to their Mino Link flip chip and two sets of press-in headset cups, you can shift the character of this bike drastically to suit your terrain and preference. As a result, it’s a bit hard to parse out the specific geometry of the bike (however Trek’s site features a geometry tool to let you do so), so I’ll just speak to it in its most neutral form, which is where many will likely settle. There are a whopping 8 size variations to this bike from XS to XXL, so it’s worth digging through the geometry tables to see which might suit you best. They’re all sporting 140mm of rear travel with a 150mm fork, upping the numbers on the prior generation by 10mm.

I’ve been testing the large frame, which puts the reach and stack at around 485mm and 621mm, which are in line with the majority of the industry right now. In keeping with the new Trek Fuel EX’s theme of being adaptable and capable. In its neutral-low setting, the bike comes with a 64.5-degree head tube angle and the effective seat tube angle sits at 77.2-degrees. Chainstays shift with the frame size, and on a large come in at 440mm. Thanks to the Mino Link flip chip, you can adjust bottom bracket height by 8mm up from the slammed 38mm drop in stock configuration, with a 0.6° steeper head tube and seat tube angle. The more significant head tube adjustment comes from the independent press-in headset cups that Trek supplies, which can steepen or slacken things by a full degree, giving a very wide range of handling characteristics. The last frame toggle is the progression flip chip, offering a simple more or less option to tailor the suspension feel and offer uncompromised coil shock compatibility.

As is trend right now, you can set the Fuel Ex up as a mullet, simply by popping a 27.5” wheel in the rear, swapping the Mino Link to high mode, and bumping up fork travel to 160mm. The bike comes stock as a 29er front and rear (or 27.5″ in XS and Small), so you’ll have to make this change on your own accord.

A notable thing lacking from the newest Fuel EX its the Knock Block – you’ll find no such thing on this frame. X-up fans take note, as this is a big move for the engineers in Waterloo, Wisconsin, and was necessary to achieve the headset adjustment range they wanted. Trek has also moved away from the RE:aktiv damper shock, now simply relying on an off-the-shelf model. Still included in the frames are the handy-dandy stash box in the down tube, with what I think might be the best weather sealing of any of the options on the market at this point, and a neat BITS tool roll.

Build kits come in as many flavors as the sizes, and the range of options is quite extensive, beginning at a respectable $3,699. I’ve been on the highest end build, the 9.9 AXS especial, coming in at a healthy $10,749. From Bontrager Line 30 carbon wheels, to the RSL one-piece carbon cockpit, to the XX1 drivetrain, just about everything is as nice as it gets, as you’d hope for this kind of money.

At my height of 6’3”, the geo combination of the Neutral-Low-More flip chip configuration on the large size makes for a really comfortable fit, one that feels stable enough at speed while still remaining lively for your average trail. I started my time testing the bright yellow Trek up in Whistler, riding some gnarly rocky pedal-access trails around the Valley. This was a great context for deciding where I stood on the less or more progression debate, and I settled on the latter end of the spectrum. Increased bottom-out resistance and a more supple top of travel were worth a slightly punchier suspension feel, and I stand by that choice for most of the riding I have around me. On my home trails in Bellingham, the Fuel has been a choice companion for fast and fun rides in our local trail systems, where technical and engaging climbs lead to fast, rooty, and jump-filled descents. My general synopsis is that this is a bike that loves to ride fast, both up and down.

The climbing characteristics are comfortable and neutral, without wallowing too much or lacking grip in trickier terrain. Like many of the take-aways of the bike as it comes stock, things are extra-medium, in the best way. Compared to the new Hightower, the bike has slightly less support, but is significantly better in rough terrain and successive hits. Compared to the Stumpjumper EVO, the Fuel EX is definitely more of a trail bike, less of the all-mountain enduro-lite ride that the Specialized offers. All three bikes serve as a nice gradient from the lighter and sportier end of the trail spectrum to the burlier and more capable side of the category. Sitting pretty right in the middle is the Fuel EX, but I’m sure one could tweak it to either of the other extremes, given how much variability is baked into this frame.

Build kit notes are mostly positive, which you’d hope to see from the highest end build. My main gripe is with the Bontrager SE5 tires, which are some the least confidence-inspiring I’ve ridden in recent memory. The casing and tread pattern are fine, but the compound doesn’t seem to want to hook up anywhere, whether it’s dry loose terrain, rock slabs, and especially wet roots. This would be an immediate swap in my book, and I’d just keep the stock tires to run in the rear when conditions are dry and beat at the peak of summer.

The removable shuttle pad doesn’t seem to want to stay close to the frame, and bows out slightly when attached, giving the downtime a funny bulged look to it. One other frame annoyance has been a recurring suspension knock, despite chasing through every bolt in the linkage with a torque wrench. I still have yet to find the culprit, but luckily it’s not very noticeable when riding.

As a system, I’ve been more than impressed by Trek’s work on the new Fuel EX. Not only does it feel quick and confidant in the stock configuration, it also offers a whole host of layout options to better cater the bike to your preferences.

THE WOLF’S FIRST IMPRESSION

To close out our review of the new Trek Fuel Ex, it’s clear that Trek’s engineers and designers set out to design a bike that caters to that wide center of the market – the trail bike – where most riders spend their time, and where a bike can take many forms. In that goal, they found success. Sure some riders may feel the new Fuel EX has departed from what they were used to and liked about the bike, but many other riders will likely welcome the advancements in capability and confidence on the trail. The Fuel EX is a highly adaptable bike that feels comfortable in a really wide variety of terrain but doesn’t confuse itself for anything more or less. Bike riders, rejoice.

TREK FUEL EX 7

Price: $3,699.99

Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage | 140mm Fork: RockShox 35 Gold RL | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float EVOL

Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT Brakes: Shimano MT420 4-piston

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Comp 30, Rapid Drive 108

TREK FUEL EX 8

Price: $4,299

Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Rhythm 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120

TREK FUEL EX 9.7

Price: $6,249.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Rhythm 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120

TREK FUEL EX 9.8

GX AXS Price: $7,699.99 XT Price: $6,749.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Performance 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Carbon, Rapid Drive 108

GX AXS BUILD Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle AXS Brakes: SRAM CODE R

XT BUILD Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 Brakes: Shimano XT M8120

TREK FUEL EX 9.9

XX1 AXS Price: $10,749.99 XTR Price: $9,749.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Factory 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Factory Float X

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Carbon, Rapid Drive 108

XX1 AXS BUILD Drivetrain: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Brakes: SRAM CODE RSC

XT BUILD Drivetrain: Shimano XTR M9100 Brakes: Shimano XTR M9120

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The argument in favor of using filler text goes something like this: If you use arey real content in the Consulting Process anytime you reachtent.

Mountain Bikes

Parts & Components

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Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 review

by Cyclesgo

The Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 is part of the sixth generation of the US brand’s flagship trail-bike family, launched in 2022. It went live hot on the heels of the aesthetically similar, but motor-assisted Fuel EXe bike. The Fuel EX family offers 140mm of rear-wheel travel, paired with 150mm forks, and is targeted at more aggressive trail bike riders. The bulk of the bikes are offered with 29in wheels, the XS frames have 27.5in wheels, while those looking at size-small bikes get the pick of both sizes. One of the most adjustable bikes on the market, the Fuel EX offers two geometry adjustments, as well as suspension adaptability and mullet compatibility. With an expansive range, covering alloy and carbon models, there are bikes for many pockets. This EX Gen 6 sits at the top end of the alloy range, and while the spec list isn’t dripping in top-end kit, the selection of parts suggests solid performance should be expected.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 frame and suspension

Trek Fuel Ex 8 Gen 6 Full Suspension Mountain Bike

The frame uses Trek’s Alpha Platinum aluminium, which is butted and hydroformed into the tube shapes the brand desires. The down tube features a storage port, into which tools, snacks or pumps can be stashed, situated under the bottle cage. Under the tube is a two-piece rubberised bolt-on protection strip to keep the frame safe. It extends the length of the down tube, which is great to see. Threaded bottom bracket shells will appeal to home mechanics, while there are ISCG05 mounts around the shell too. Thick rubberised protection keeps the rear triangle running quietly and the paint chip-free. A wide 34.9mm seat tube means large-diameter droppers are fitted – a boon when it comes to durability.

Chain-slap protection helps keep the bike quiet. Trek uses its ABP (Active Braking Pivot) suspension linkage on the Fuel EX. This places the rear pivot concentric to the rear axle (rather than on the chainstay or seatstay, as on most suspension systems). This, Trek says, separates braking forces from the suspension’s action. The idea is that suspension remains active while braking. Normally, the torque applied to the seatstay by the brake during braking interferes with the suspension, hampering the wheel’s ability to track the ground while slowing down.

Trek’s ABP suspension merges 4-bar and faux-bar with a rear pivot concentric to the rear axle. Trek says the seatstay, which floats between the rear pivot and the rocker link, separates the two competing forces. The suspension linkage features a two-position lower shock mount on the frame (the ‘Progression Chip’), enabling you to run a more progressive leverage curve, offering improved bottom-out protection, or the ability to run a coil shock, which is more linear than a standard air shock. This feature should appeal to more aggressive riders.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 geometry

The Fuel EX 8 features Trek’s MinoLink tech. Trek has given the Fuel EX plenty of adjustability in terms of the bike’s geometry. The MinoLink has been seen on numerous Trek bikes. This flip chip in the suspension rocker gives Low and High settings, altering head and seat angles by 0.5 degrees. It also alters the BB height by 8mm. There are also three headset options – Slack, Neutral and Steep. In Slack (and MinoLink in Low), this offers adjustment from 63.5 degrees to 64.5 degrees (Neutral) up to 65.5 degrees in Steep. There’s minimal impact on other areas of the bike’s geometry. Bikes ship with the Neutral headset (and the bike is tested here in Neutral), with a rotatable headset cup available aftermarket, offering the Slack and Steep options.

One of many adjustments available – the progressivity of the rear suspension can be changed here. Finally, in terms of adjustability, if you stick the bike in the Steep setting with a 160mm fork, the Fuel EX can be run as a mullet bike, with a 27.5in wheel in the back. Overall, the geometry is very modern. Reach figures are long, the head angles are slack and the seat tube angles are steep, at around 78 degrees. Chainstay lengths alter with size, too, ranging from 435mm to 450mm across the (impressive) eight sizes on offer. These go from XS to S (27.5 or 29in), Medium and Medium Large, Large, XL and XXL.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 specifications

Fox’s Rhythm 36 might come from the base of the range, but it’s a smooth, comfortable fork. At £4,350, it’s fair to say the EX 8 doesn’t offer the best value around. However, many of the spec choices are solid, and the alloy chassis is great. Suspension comes from Fox, in the shape of a Rhythm-level 36 fork with 150mm travel. This comes with the basic GRIP damper, which has a lockout dial on the top of the fork and low-speed rebound adjustment at the bottom. At the rear, there’s a Float X shock, in its Performance flavour. This has a piggy-back design, giving it a higher oil volume, which in turn improves performance consistency on long descents.

The Float X shock from Fox is a great addition to the spec. The Performance level largely means there’s less adjustment than its pricier siblings, but you still get a lockout lever. The drivetrain is a mix of Shimano XT, SLX and Deore, as well as an e*thirteen 9-50t cassette. The brakes on my test bike are the new mineral-oil based DB8 brakes from SRAM, with 200/180mm rotors. Some bikes may come with M6100-level Shimano brakes, though. Bontrager (Trek’s in-house parts brand), provides the bulk of the finishing kit, from the cockpit to the saddle, as well as its Line 30 Comp wheels, and mid-aggressiveness XR5 Team Issue 29×2.5in tyres.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 ride impressions

The Fuel EX excelled on rocky, rooty tech. This bike was tested as part of our 2023 Bike of the Year test. It was compared to seven of the best trail bikes, listed later. I took all the bikes to the same locations and trails for some dedicated back-to-back testing on a wide variety of terrain. From hand-dug tracks in the woods to trail-centre laps and BikePark Wales’ rocky runs, I ensured the trail bikes were exposed to every type of trail such a bike is likely to be ridden on. Riding the bikes back to back, usually with four in each testing session, ensured I was able to pick out the finer performance points of each one.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 climbing performance

The Fuel EX climbs really well, with plenty of poise. The Fuel EX does a solid job when the trails start to ascend. The seated position is excellent, with a steep seat angle putting you right where you need to be over the cranks when the front wheel is higher than the rear. When your weight shifts rearward, the suspension doesn’t seem to squat much, either, so the seat angle rarely dips from its steep position too much. Seated, the suspension is as good as solid when pedalling, with minimal movement of the shock under regular pedalling loads, leading to an efficient feel. The SE5 tyres roll fairly fast, thanks to their low tread height.

The Line 3 cockpit is harsher than 31.8mm-diameter bars. Stand up, and you can get the suspension bobbing about, but it doesn’t feel as wallowy as many in this situation, and the lockout lever is within easy reach on smoother drags. Get to a step up in the trail and the suspension stays static as the rear wheel crests the ledge. Traction on slippery roots from the SE5 rubber could be better too – though the trade-off would likely be some rolling resistance. When stood, you get the first impression that the chassis is stiff – there’s no spaghetti feeling as you put power through the cranks, and the whole setup feels, simply put, solid.

An omission from the XT drivetrain – the cassette. Despite all this, it’s not the fastest climbing bike ever. It has a reassuringly composed feel, rather than light and flighty, and during testing I never really felt myself being egged on to ramp up the watts to get up the hill faster. It’s a bit of a sit and spin bike. The Shimano drivetrain is good, with Trek speccing a largely XT groupset. Cassette specs seem to vary, like the brakes, with e*thirteen (as I have) and Shimano SLX being listed. The e*thirteen’s shifting performance isn’t quite as slick as a Shimano alternative in my experience, but does feel a little quieter when the drivetrain is covered in grit and grime, compared to Deore/SLX cassettes.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 descending performance

The stiff chassis still manages to hold lines well through corners. The solidity that was evident on the climbs is almost more so on descents. Trek has made a super-stout chassis that gives the Fuel EX an impressively composed feel on the trail. It is almost unshakeable, pretty much regardless of the terrain. The suspension doesn’t have a light, flighty feel, but is nicely damped, offering buckets of traction, whether you’re on the brakes or not, and provides ample isolation from the minutiae detail of the trail, without leaving you feeling entirely disconnected from it. Lighter riders may well find the shock over-damped. On big hits, after a slightly harsh entry into its travel, the shock is controlled, with a smooth transition towards the bottom of its travel, avoiding any nasty clunks as the shock bottoms out. This is in the normal rather than more progressive shock setting too.

Shimano’s XT drivetrain is crisp. In this, I struggled to get through all the travel, suggesting it may well work better with a coil shock (which is, by its very nature, less progressive at the end of its stroke). Drop the bike into a corner, and the chassis doesn’t flex, pushing your weight straight onto the tyre’s shoulder in a reassuring manner, and communicating exactly what’s happening through the rubber. It carves corners beautifully. Fire it through some janky rocks, and the bike seems to shrug off any attempt to push it off-line and you into trouble. It doesn’t display full monster-truck tendencies, but it’s certainly a bike that feels happy being pointed somewhere in the distance and then allowed to get there in as straight a line as possible. It’s a similar story on rolling trails, too. The suspension enables you to push and pump the bike through undulations, gathering speed, avoiding feeling like you’re trying to compress a marshmallow. Turn the pedals and you’re projected forward with ever-increasing speed.

A calm, composed ride leads you to hit features at speed. It even displays ample levels of agility, too – want to add a few air miles to your account? There’s support there to boost off a lip. Keen to whip the rear wheel round a tight bend? It’ll drop its shoulder and scrabble its rubber round when required. With a 485mm reach (large) and 64.5-degree head angle, the Fuel EX should excel on steep tracks, especially because the Fox Rhythm 36 has a similarly stout chassis and ample support when needed. However, you do need to trust both the brakes and the tyres in this situation.

SRAM’s new DB8 brakes failed to impress. The new SRAM DB8 brakes didn’t impress me in testing. They feel wooden through the lever, with a disconnected lever feel, and their power levels are down on both the SRAM G2 and Shimano’s similar offerings. Given Trek lists both the DB8 and Shimano M6100-series brakes on its spec list, given the choice, I’d opt for the Shimano stoppers. While I’ve been relatively complimentary of the tyres so far, their performance is outshone by Maxxis tyres on other trail Bike of the Year bikes. The tread depth is low, and so in sloppier conditions they don’t have the same bite. The slightly more rounded profile means the shoulder tread doesn’t engage the dirt as effectively as other tyres might.

Bontrager’s XR5 Team Issue tyres are okay in the dry, but struggle in the wet and aren’t the most supple. Compared to Maxxis’ 3C MaxxTerra rubber and EXO+ casing, these tyres can’t compete. They ping over rocks more and have less traction on damp rocks and roots. Early testing on the loam, mud and roots of the forest left me impressed. But later trips to the high-frequency rocky chatter of BikePark Wales revealed the Trek’s other weaknesses – the stiff frame, Line 30 wheels and oversized bars. These combined to transmit a whole lot of buzz straight to my hands. Add in under-powered brakes, and arm fatigue was an issue on prolonged rocky descents.

How does the Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 compare to the Merida One-Forty 700?

Pack Shot Of The Merida One-Forty 700 Full Suspension Mountain Bike

The Merida One-Forty 700 represents exceptional value for money. Trek and Merida each launched great new trail bikes in 2022. Both have clearly concentrated on the quality of their chassis, and target the trail rider who doesn’t want descending performance to be compromised. The Trek has a very assured feel – it’s calm, composed and really easy to ride. It’s agile and communicative too. The Merida (in the Long size that I tested) is radical in its shape, and climbs exceptionally well. It has a touch more pedal feedback, but both will tackle steep tech with ease. Merida pips the Trek, though, thanks to its better tyres and cracking value for money. It’s over £1,000 cheaper, and other than the single-can shock, rather than piggyback, I can’t see where it loses out spec-wise.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 bottom line

The Fuel EX has a really planted feeling over the rocks. The Fuel EX is undoubtedly a great trail bike, and very nearly made it into my top three for this Bike of the Year category. It was the rockiest tracks that separated the best from the rest, though, and the stiff front end, as well as questionable value, squeezed the Trek off the podium. It’s a bike that best rewards an aggressive, rather than passive, riding style. Treat it right (and maybe get lucky with the brake specs) and you won’t be disappointed by the Fuel EX.

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Rider Notes

2009 Trek Fuel EX 9.8

A 26″ carbon frame full suspension trail bike with high-end components. Compare the full range

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A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Fuel EX 9.8

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

Jul 2010 · MBA Action

We raved about Trek's 2009 carbon fiber Fuel EX 9.9 trailbike (MBA, August 2009). The 4.7-inch travel machine screamed uphill like a race bike, and the

Read Review

Jan 2009 · Guy Kesteven

Every bike is a compromise in some way, and what the weighty Trek loses in acceleration it gains in confidence. The slippery tyres and steady steering stem definitely need changing if you want to get the most from an excellent technical chassis though.

Jun 2007 · Matt Pacocha

If the past three weeks are any indication, Trek is going to have a very good year in 2008. Earlier this month, Trek unveiled thenew 2008 Madone. It’s an impressive bike that challenges a number of age-old approaches to frame – and component - design. Lennard Zinn saw the technology first hand, reported on it here and has a more detailed impression in the latest issue of VeloNews, issue 13, due out July 9th. Following that tough act, Trek’s mountain-bike suspension designers, engineers and product managers unveiled a completely new version of the Fuel EX, as a side note to the Madone

Last updated June 29 Not listed for 2,485 days

A Magazine for Those With a Passion to Travel in Style

Moscow: An Honest Review of this Amazing City

“ You’re going to Russia?!?! Why? ” I heard these words pretty much every time I announced my upcoming trip to the east.

This reaction is understandable. Most people in Europe and the United States have a Putin-provoked distaste of the Russian Federation, which is growing by the day. Politicians claim that Russia’s sole mission is to diminish and undermine western powers to strengthen its own. After all, the name Vladimir comes from two old Slavic words, which together mean “great ruler of the world.” Make of that what you will…

Even the non-political vision of Russia is unfavorable. Most think of a cold, grey, backward place with Soviet architecture or battle-hardened, weather-beaten people. However, arriving at the sleek Moscow Domodedovo airport, I was impressed. I had been right to rebut popular notions of an unwelcoming and stony place.

However, almost immediately after leaving the airport, the ground for my righteous vindication became shaky. Driving into the outskirts of Moscow, my mind drew comparisons to television images of North Korean suburbs. Miles of uniform houses and bleak tower blocks lined the roads.

LuxeGetaways - Luxury Travel - Luxury Travel Magazine - Luxe Getaways - Luxury Lifestyle - Russia - Moscow - Michael Sturrock

At the Izmailovov Delta Hotel next to the famous market of the same name, things were not looking much better. Truly peculiar decorations and violently colored walls competed for one’s gaze in the hotel lobby. Luckily, the rooms themselves were perfectly comfortable, though not particularly noteworthy. I’d stay central next time.

After dropping bags, I ventured toward the Izmailovov market for a look at how the locals live. From a distance, the buildings that encase the market are vivid, intricate and quite something to behold. As it was late in the day, the market was empty. Shop shutters were closed and stalls were folded up. I got the same uneasy feeling I get when walking through Disney Land – as if this was what remained after the recent collapse of a utopian society.

While nearly all the vendors had packed up and gone home, a few stalls remained opened for business. All that was left was an abundance of satirical matryoshka dolls containing various countries’ political leaders in historical order.

A tattooed burly salesman came over to me as I withdrew François Mitterrand from the wooden bowels of Valéry Giscard d’Estaing.

“ Where are you from, friend? ” He asked.

Ignoring my response, he launched into a speech about his armed forces days and the political situation in Russia.

“ You really ought not to trust the government, ok? Putin is a dangerous man, you see. Someone’s always watching in this city. ”

The whiff of Glühwein that carried with each sentence made me doubt the erudition of his analysis. Then again… this is what we hear in the news. I was not sure what to believe. After thanking the man and hastily filling Charles de Gaulle with the rest of the presidents of the Fifth Republic, I made my way back to the hotel.

Emerging from the underground we rounded the corner and immediately found ourselves in Red Square. The sight demands you stop and stare.

The insurmountable walls of the Kremlin line the length of one side; halfway along lies Lenin’s tomb and opposite is the lavish exterior of the Gosudarstvennyi Universalnyi Magazin shopping center (or GUM, as it’s referred to, thank God). The architectural marvel of Saint Basil’s Cathedral stands at the south end, with the State History Museum at the other. Even though the foreboding structures radiate a rouge pastel hue into every corner of the square, there is a sense of openness. No-doubt there was a somewhat different atmosphere when thousands of Soviet soldiers goose-stepped through the square. Interestingly, the Russian army still marches like this today.

Walking around central Moscow, history oozes from every spire and pillar. Buildings seem to lean over as you walk past, as if peering down on whoever dares to enter these austere places. For every moment or event in Russian history, there is a dedicated museum.

The quality of each museum is notably high. In particular, the Armory inside the Kremlin holds astonishing collections of royal carriages from across the world and throughout the ages. The world-renowned Fabergé Eggs are displayed here too.

Having wandered around for so long during the day, we had no time to eat before attending the Ballet that evening. Sitting in the Bolshoi, the long day began to catch up with me.

It is now that I must make a confession: while attending a performance by one of the world’s greatest ballet companies, I fell asleep.

Thankfully, I woke up later in the second half and was treated to the final leaps and prances of Shostakovich’s The Bright Stream. As someone who is not a ballet aficionado, that was probably enough.

Feeling significantly perkier afterward, a late dinner was in order. Just behind the Bolshoi is VOGUE Café , a gastronomic outpost of the famous magazine. It claimed to serve an eclectic mix of Japanese, Italian and Russian dishes. Intrigued, we entered.

Adventurously, we accepted the offer of some Russian wine. Full bodied and berried, it was delicious. Our evident surprise led the waitress to explain that Russian food and drink has improved hugely over the last few years. As it turns out, since the United States and the European Union placed sanctions on Russia after their annexation of Crimea, food imports have been scarce. As a result, Russian producers have been forced to meet the demand and quality expected today. As a result, Siberian wines and cheeses now win awards around the globe.

When we left the restaurant, it was late. Only a day had passed, yet we had filled every minute with history, culture and food. The next three days followed a similar format and we continued to make our way down the list of museums and sights. A boat ride along the river is a must-do for alternative views of the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Afterwards, sit on the rooftop Strelka bar opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and watch the 3-mile-long line of pilgrims move slowly forward.

On the third day, we were due to board an overnight train to Saint Petersburg, but there was still so much left to do. Truth be told, it was probably too much for another three days, let alone one.

Nonetheless, I was satisfied. Moscow had revealed itself to be a fascinating and impressive city. While the city infrastructure isn’t as up-to-date as most capitals, the needs of every modern traveler can be met. It certainly isn’t the cold and unfriendly place envisioned by most in the west. Moscow’s winning attribute is its omnipresent sense of untouched history. This is a feature that is so often lost amongst hordes of tourists in Europe’s capitals.

It goes to show: what we hear about places we haven’t been in the news or through general hearsay, we can formulate pretty strong prejudices in our mind. While the political realities may still be ugly, by visiting, you can learn to separate and appreciate the everyday, the culture and the history of a place. On one side of a great red wall in central Moscow, a tyrannical leader works. On the other side, wholly separated, lies a magnificent Red Square where an overwhelming sense of history reveals the essence of Moscow and of Russia. And it is truly remarkable.

Russia Tourism: https://www.russiatourism.ru/en/

3 amazing real estate opportunities in hawaii this season.

Cigar Reviews by the Katman

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Home › CIGAR REVIEWS › Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series | Cigar Review

Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series | Cigar Review

By The Katman on September 23, 2014 • ( 3 )

Today we take a look at the Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series.

There are three sizes: Petite Robusto, Robusto Extra 5.5 x 54, and Double Robusto 6.25 x 56. The cigars are blended by Henke Kelner of Davidoff.

The cigars are everywhere online and appear to be price controlled.

There are six different blends: Moscow City Series, Berlin Wall Series, Hermitage No.1, Icon, Tradicion Serie, and Tver(Available only in Texas).

From Hammer + Sickle Cigars web site: “Crafted at the famed TabaDom manufactory, Moscow City boasts a Connecticut broadleaf wrapper, meaning it is Connecticut grown and uses Connecticut seed. We have painstakingly awaited the natural fermentation process of aging to create this premium cigar. “Only a select group of cigars on the market use this wrapper, which is both rare and high-end. It proves to be challenging to work with, yet delivers a maduro taste that is both unmistakable and unrivaled. The initial sweet taste of a Moscow City cigar emanates from the Connecticut seed, but once lit becomes rich and nutty, resulting in a smoke that is full in body and flavor.”

From NH Cigars: “The Moscow City cigars are limited to only 400 boxes worldwide and we are one of the first to offer these fine cigars. I know the name sounds kind of different because it’s not named after some Spanish Conquistador, or a name that you can’t even pronounce, but trust us folks this cigar is truly a legend already. The Moscow City cigars have a well-aged maduro broad-leaf wrapper that is wrapped around a peppery secret blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican ligero long-fillers. The burn and draw on these hot rods are outstanding. The Cigar box is made up of metal that will make a perfect conversation piece.”

The cigar has a nice looking milk chocolate wrapper with plenty of oil. The wrapper is very smooth to the touch. Seams are tight. Lots of small veins. A gorgeous triple cap.

I clip the cap and find aromas of cocoa, hazelnut, strong earthiness, enough spice to make me sneeze three times in succession, and oak. Time to light up.

The Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series is screaming flavors. It is 5 minutes away from being a flavor bomb.

These cigars don’t need extensive humidor aging. In fact, I’ve only had them a few days. And this stick smokes like it has been aged for months.

The strength starts out at high medium bodied. In a few moments, it should hit medium/full. And I have no doubt it will hit the advertised full body.

Char line is on the money.

I can taste Granny Smith apples. That tart green skin with the slightly acidic/sweet flavor. The apple flavor literally soars.

This is damn fine cigar. Is it a mini-Davidoff? Don’t know. I think I’ve smoked half a dozen Davidoffs in my life and I can’t remember a whit about them. Too damn expensive for the working stiff.

And the cigar hits flavor bomb status.

I am about to begin the second third.

The Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series has an interesting tobacco flavor. It is intense and painted in broad strokes. It is rich and full flavored. Sometimes, we forget about the actual taste of the tobacco and concentrate only on the foo foo flavors.

The price point. Worth every dime. A perfect example of water seeking its own level by matching a fine cigar with a fair price.

The flavors are: Spice, creaminess, chocolate, nuts, oak, molasses, honey, caramel, green apple, cedar, and leather. Not to mention a rich earthiness.

There is perfect balance. Not a single flavor, except for the heady spiciness, outdoes the other. Picking the order of flavors was near impossible. Each has its place in the puzzle.

Just as I write the above, the Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series runs rampant in the streets. Flavors explode. The creaminess and cocoa are so intense, I grab a Diet Coke for my egg cream experience. The green apple is right behind. There are raisins now. Completing the fruity portion of this program.

Coffee appears in the form of caramel macchiato. With little chocolate sprinkles. The honey element is strong. Man, damn fine cigar!

I cannot wait to introduce you to the Berlin Wall Series and the Tradicion.

I still have 2-1/2” to go and that makes me happy. The cigar is so jam packed that it is a very slow smoke. I’ve invested 45 minutes into the first 2-1/4”.

Construction is impeccable. No issues from the wrapper. The cap is sturdy. And the char line is dead nuts. I can’t get enough of this cigar.

I begin the halfway mark.

Kelner did a spectacular job. And because of his name alone being associated with the line of cigars, they could have been in the double digit price range. So kudos to Hammer + Sickle for keeping it real, babies.

We are now in uber super-duper flavor bomb status. There is no place it can go from here. The Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series has one of the most intense flavor profiles I’ve ever tasted.

The strength becomes full bodied. My brain begins to swim like a sea of swarming simbas.

I have the biggest smile on my puss right now. I want more. I smoked the other one last night which brought me to this review. So now I am out of this blend. I would love to get my hands on at least a 5 pack.

Don’t fuck around. Grab that sampler of 6 cigars, from Thompson, before they disappear. At $3.33 per stick, that’s $4-$5 off per stick. It will give you a good idea of which blend you prefer.

The Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series is as close to a perfect cigar as they come. Of course, that’s my opinion. You may have another. But the fact that it was basically a flavor bomb from the start and the rich earthiness that accompanies it makes it a real experience. This ain’t no yard ‘gar. It is for the experienced palate.

I will review either the Berlin Wall or the Tradicion this week. I smoked a Berlin Wall that was a gift a few days ago. But it was one of the last sticks of the day so while I thoroughly enjoyed it, I missed out on the nuances.

And this blend is chock full of nuance and balance with a mighty long finish.

The flavors are so potent, my palate is in overload. Flavor elements have mellowed a bit but still very definable. So far, the nicotine has been mild.

There is a limited supply of these cigars. And they have mostly flown under the radar. Not much of a PR machine. But that is OK for those of us that have discovered them.

One last time: Creaminess, cocoa, spice, green apple, molasses, honey, sweet cedar, coffee, nuts, caramel, leather, earthiness, and oak.

The Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series finishes out beautifully. Not a bit of harshness or heat. All flavors intact. But the nicotine level has risen dramatically. I put on my crash helmet so no worries.

Categories: CIGAR REVIEWS

Tags: cigar review , cigar reviews by the katman , cigars , davidoff , Hammer + Sickle Moscow City Series Cigar Review , hendrik kelner

IMO the Moscow city is like the Davidoff maduro on steroids. An excellent cigar.

coultnt resist with this review and at that price…6 already on the way. still saving for the ashton aged maduros…yeesh

ok…yeah…and i kinda want the box…hehe.

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Trek Fuel EX 8 29 review

A cross-country lineage doesn’t hold the Fuel EX back on the trail

Matt Wragg / Immediate Media

Well-specced, fun, agile and responsive trail bike

Heavier or more aggressive riders may want a stiffer fork and more progressive suspension, dropper post isn’t the best out there

The Trek Fuel EX 8 29 is a bike with a lineage going back to cross-country racing. This DNA shines through, but without the drawbacks that this can bring — the Fuel EX is a genuine trail bike.

Bike of the Year 2018
Best bike: our buyer's guide to which bicycle type you should buy in 2018
The Trek Fuel EX 8 29 is one of our Bike of the Year bikes for 2018. To read reviews of the other contenders and the categories tested across road, mountain and women's bikes, visit our Bike of the Year hub .

Trek uses its ABP linkage design on this aluminium frame, with a rear pivot planted around the rear axle. This, combined with the custom RE:aktiv shock delivers a bike that not only climbs well, but can handle the descents too.

The RE:aktiv shock has an inertia valve inside it, which effectively gives an auto on-off pedal platform to prevent the shock from suffering too much influence from pedal inputs, while still remaining active on the descents.

In practice this works well, and it feels like there’s a subtle improvement in feel over some previous generations.

If you mash on the pedals you can definitely get the shock cycling through its stroke — it’s not a lock-out as such (there’s a low-speed compression lever for longer smooth climbs), but on pedally sections the bike feels very calm, composed and efficient.

While older versions had a slight clunk when the platform opened, the current generation is smoother, and there’s less of a noticeable feel when the platform gives way to the bike’s travel.

Once in the travel, the Trek is relatively active, happy to sit into the travel, rather than on top of it. The Fuel EX doesn’t feel super at home on the steepest or roughest of trails, but with a cross-country heritage, this isn't such an issue.

Riders who want to get the most from the bike could add a volume spacer or two to the shock for more progression out of the back end, as the faster and steeper you go, the more the bike likes to find its way to the depths of its travel. It’s here that the bike also feels like it gets knocked around a bit, losing some of that sure-footedness composure it has elsewhere.

However, on the trails it’s most suited to, the ABP suspension does a great job. The rear wheel tracks the ground well, boosting confidence, partly thanks to the fully floating shock that's bolted between the main swingarm and the rocker linkage.

Despite its 14kg weight, it doesn’t feel lardy and it’s happy to be lifted and placed where you want it on the trail. It is, in fact, better suited to a more refined, precise ride, rather than just being pummelled into whatever is in the way — it's a bike that goes fast and rewards riders who are happy to place it where it’s needed.

The frame, combined with the planted feel through the suspension feels like a solid, tight package too. It’s not flexing everywhere, but fortunately avoids feeling harsh, though the front triangle’s stiffness results in a definite accuracy as you guide it through the chop. Thanks to this it’s a fast, stable and fun bike that seems to want to accelerate everywhere.

Through the use of its Mino Link you can change the geometry of the Fuel EX, though I generally kept it in the ‘Low’ setting, best for the 29in wheels.

There’s room for 650b wheels in there too, and at this point it might be wise to switch to the high setting to account for the lower ride height given by plus-wheels.

For £2,700 / $3,199 I feel the Fuel EX 8 29 is decent value for money. Trek uses a lot of its in-house Bontrager kit, and generally this is no bad thing.

The Line Comp 30 wheels don’t feel heavy or wooden and the cockpit is a decent shape (though I’d like a slightly wider than 750mm bar). The Line dropper post hasn’t proved the most reliable though, getting a touch sluggish in cold or grimy conditions.

Due to supply issues, the test bike came with Schwalbe Nobby Nic tyres, but Trek lists Bontrager SE5s as the stock tyre. I would like to ride the bike with the Bontrager rubber as the relatively hard compound Nobby Nics on the bike aren’t the grippiest and I feel I could get more out of the bike with slightly better tyres.

Up front is a 130mm Fox Rhythm 34 fork with the Grip damper. This is the base model 34, but one that I'm rarely disappointed to see. Okay, the spring curve from stock is a touch linear, but add a volume spacer or two and it’ll ramp up towards the end of the stroke.

However, the feeling through the bar is smooth and composed, without the slightly harsh or spiky feeling other ‘budget’ forks can have. This year’s Performance and Performance Elite level Fox forks feel better than last year's, but they don’t feel drastically better than the Rhythm 34s here.

SRAM’s Guide R brakes offer decent braking power for a bike such as the Fuel EX, and the GX Eagle groupset now has to be regarded as the benchmark trail groupset.

Trek also offers an XT 2x11 option for the same money in some territories, though I feel the GX Eagle is the one to go for.

Also consider...

If you're looking for alternative options, have a look at the following list. Each bike has been thoroughly tested and robustly reviewed. Click on the links for the full review.

YT Jeffsy 29 CF
Norco Sight A2 29
Canyon Spectral CF 9.0
Orbea Occam TR H10
Marin B17 3
Transition Scout NX
Commencal Meda TR V4.2 Essential
Santa Cruz Tallboy Alloy R
Juliana Joplin R
Specialized Rhyme Carbon Comp 6Fattie
Canyon Spectral WMN CF 9.0 SL
Yeti Beti SB5 C-Series XT
Scott Contessa Spark 910
Best women's mountain bikes of 2018
BikeRadar would like to thank Life Cycle Adventures , Sanremo Bike Resort , MET Helmets , Bluegrass Eagle Protection , Mercedes Benz and Brittany Ferries for their help and support during our Bike of the Year test.

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Trek Fuel EX 9.8

AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 15.5", 17.5", 18.5", 19.5", 21.5"

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

Frame OCLV Black Carbon w/ABP, Full Floater, E2 head tube, magnesium EVO Link, oversized bearings, 120mm travel
Wheels Bontrager Rhythm Elite wheel system, 28mm, tubeless ready
Wheel Size 26"
Tires Bontrager Jones XR w/Kevlar bead, 26x2.2/2.25"; 127 tpi
Crank Shimano Deore XT 44/32/22
Bottom Bracket BSA, 73mm, threaded
Front Derailleur Shimano Deore XT
Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore XT "Shadow"
Shifters Shimano Deore XT
Brakeset Shimano Deore XT Ti hydraulic disc, custom Ti for Trek; 180mm rotors (160mm rear rotor on 15.5, 17.5, 18.5")
Handlebar Bontrager Race X Lite Carbon, 40mm rise, 31.8mm
Saddle Bontrager Race Lite w/hollow stainless steel rails
Seatpost Bontrager Race Lite, 5mm offset
Stem Bontrager Race X Lite, 7 degree, 31.8mm
Headset Frustum Cane Creek SE Light Edition; 1 1/8" top, 1.5" bottom

Q: Where to buy a 2009 Trek Fuel EX 9.8?

The 2009 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2009 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 have?

The 2009 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 has 26" wheels.

Q: What size 2009 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 should I get?

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The Comprehensive Guide to Moscow Nightlife

Posted on April 14, 2018 July 26, 2018
by Kings of Russia
8 minute read

Moscow’s nightlife scene is thriving, and arguably one of the best the world has to offer – top-notch Russian women, coupled with a never-ending list of venues, Moscow has a little bit of something for everyone’s taste. Moscow nightlife is not for the faint of heart – and if you’re coming, you better be ready to go Friday and Saturday night into the early morning.

This comprehensive guide to Moscow nightlife will run you through the nuts and bolts of all you need to know about Moscow’s nightclubs and give you a solid blueprint to operate with during your time in Moscow.

What you need to know before hitting Moscow nightclubs

Prices in moscow nightlife.

Before you head out and start gaming all the sexy Moscow girls , we have to talk money first. Bring plenty because in Moscow you can never bring a big enough bankroll. Remember, you’re the man so making a fuzz of not paying a drink here or there will not go down well.

Luckily most Moscow clubs don’t do cover fees. Some electro clubs will charge 15-20$, depending on their lineup. There’s the odd club with a minimum spend of 20-30$, which you’ll drop on drinks easily. By and large, you can scope out the venues for free, which is a big plus.

Bottle service is a great deal in Moscow. At top-tier clubs, it starts at 1,000$. That’ll go a long way with premium vodka at 250$, especially if you have three or four guys chipping in. Not to mention that it’s a massive status boost for getting girls, especially at high-end clubs.

Without bottle service, you should estimate a budget of 100-150$ per night. That is if you drink a lot and hit the top clubs with the hottest girls. Scale down for less alcohol and more basic places.

Dress code & Face control

Door policy in Moscow is called “face control” and it’s always the guy behind the two gorillas that gives the green light if you’re in or out.

In Moscow nightlife there’s only one rule when it comes to dress codes:

You can never be underdressed.

People dress A LOT sharper than, say, in the US and that goes for both sexes. For high-end clubs, you definitely want to roll with a sharp blazer and a pocket square, not to mention dress shoes in tip-top condition. Those are the minimum requirements to level the playing field vis a vis with other sharply dressed guys that have a lot more money than you do. Unless you plan to hit explicit electro or underground clubs, which have their own dress code, you are always on the money with that style.

Getting in a Moscow club isn’t as hard as it seems: dress sharp, speak English at the door and look like you’re in the mood to spend all that money that you supposedly have (even if you don’t). That will open almost any door in Moscow’s nightlife for you.

Types of Moscow Nightclubs

In Moscow there are four types of clubs with the accompanying female clientele:

High-end clubs:

These are often crossovers between restaurants and clubs with lots of tables and very little space to dance. Heavy accent on bottle service most of the time but you can work the room from the bar as well. The hottest and most expensive girls in Moscow go there. Bring deep pockets and lots of self-confidence and you have a shot at swooping them.

Regular Mid-level clubs:

They probably resemble more what you’re used to in a nightclub: big dancefloors, stages and more space to roam around. Bottle service will make you stand out more but you can also do well without. You can find all types of girls but most will be in the 6-8 range. Your targets should always be the girls drinking and ideally in pairs. It’s impossible not to swoop if your game is at least half-decent.

Basic clubs/dive bars:

Usually spots with very cheap booze and lax face control. If you’re dressed too sharp and speak no Russian, you might attract the wrong type of attention so be vigilant. If you know the local scene you can swoop 6s and 7s almost at will. Usually students and girls from the suburbs.

Electro/underground clubs:

Home of the hipsters and creatives. Parties there don’t mean meeting girls and getting drunk but doing pills and spacing out to the music. Lots of attractive hipster girls if that is your niche. That is its own scene with a different dress code as well.

What time to go out in Moscow

Moscow nightlife starts late. Don’t show up at bars and preparty spots before 11pm because you’ll feel fairly alone. Peak time is between 1am and 3am. That is also the time of Moscow nightlife’s biggest nuisance: concerts by artists you won’t know and who only distract your girls from drinking and being gamed. From 4am to 6am the regular clubs are emptying out but plenty of people, women included, still hit up one of the many afterparty clubs. Those last till well past 10am.

As far as days go: Fridays and Saturdays are peak days. Thursday is an OK day, all other days are fairly weak and you have to know the right venues.

The Ultimate Moscow Nightclub List

Short disclaimer: I didn’t add basic and electro clubs since you’re coming for the girls, not for the music. This list will give you more options than you’ll be able to handle on a weekend.

Preparty – start here at 11PM

Classic restaurant club with lots of tables and a smallish bar and dancefloor. Come here between 11pm and 12am when the concert is over and they start with the actual party. Even early in the night tons of sexy women here, who lean slightly older (25 and up).

The second floor of the Ugolek restaurant is an extra bar with dim lights and house music tunes. Very small and cozy with a slight hipster vibe but generally draws plenty of attractive women too. A bit slower vibe than Valenok.

Very cool, spread-out venue that has a modern library theme. Not always full with people but when it is, it’s brimming with top-tier women. Slow vibe here and better for grabbing contacts and moving on.

High-end: err on the side of being too early rather than too late because of face control.

Secret Room

Probably the top venue at the moment in Moscow . Very small but wildly popular club, which is crammed with tables but always packed. They do parties on Thursdays and Sundays as well. This club has a hip-hop/high-end theme, meaning most girls are gold diggers, IG models, and tattooed hip hop chicks. Very unfavorable logistics because there is almost no room no move inside the club but the party vibe makes it worth it. Strict face control.

Close to Secret Room and with a much more favorable and spacious three-part layout. This place attracts very hot women but also lots of ball busters and fakes that will leave you blue-balled. Come early because after 4am it starts getting empty fast. Electronic music.

A slightly kitsch restaurant club that plays Russian pop and is full of gold diggers, semi-pros, and men from the Caucasus republics. Thursday is the strongest night but that dynamic might be changing since Secret Room opened its doors. You can swoop here but it will be a struggle.

Mid-level: your sweet spot in terms of ease and attractiveness of girls for an average budget.

Started going downwards in 2018 due to lax face control and this might get even worse with the World Cup. In terms of layout one of the best Moscow nightclubs because it’s very big and bottle service gives you a good edge here. Still attracts lots of cute girls with loose morals but plenty of provincial girls (and guys) as well. Swooping is fairly easy here.

I haven’t been at this place in over a year, ever since it started becoming ground zero for drunken teenagers. Similar clientele to Icon but less chic, younger and drunker. Decent mainstream music that attracts plenty of tourists. Girls are easy here as well.

Sort of a Coyote Ugly (the real one in Moscow sucks) with party music and lots of drunken people licking each others’ faces. Very entertaining with the right amount of alcohol and very easy to pull in there. Don’t think about staying sober in here, you’ll hate it.

Artel Bessonitsa/Shakti Terrace

Electronic music club that is sort of a high-end place with an underground clientele and located between the teenager clubs Icon and Gipsy. Very good music but a bit all over the place with their vibe and their branding. You can swoop almost any type of girl here from high-heeled beauty to coked-up hipsters, provided they’re not too sober.

Afterparty: if by 5AM you haven’t pulled, it’s time to move here.

Best afterparty spot in terms of trying to get girls. Pretty much no one is sober in there and savage gorilla game goes a long way. Lots of very hot and slutty-looking girls but it can be hard to tell apart who is looking for dick and who is just on drugs but not interested. If by 9-10am you haven’t pulled, it is probably better to surrender.

The hipster alternative for afterparties, where even more drugs are in play. Plenty of attractive girls there but you have to know how to work this type of club. A nicer atmosphere and better music but if you’re desperate to pull, you’ll probably go to Miks.

Weekday jokers: if you’re on the hunt for some sexy Russian girls during the week, here are two tips to make your life easier.

Chesterfield

Ladies night on Wednesdays means this place gets pretty packed with smashed teenagers and 6s and 7s. Don’t pull out the three-piece suit in here because it’s a “simpler” crowd. Definitely your best shot on Wednesdays.

If you haven’t pulled at Chesterfield, you can throw a Hail Mary and hit up Garage’s Black Music Wednesdays. Fills up really late but there are some cute Black Music groupies in here. Very small club. Thursday through Saturday they do afterparties and you have an excellent shot and swooping girls that are probably high.

Shishas Sferum

This is pretty much your only shot on Mondays and Tuesdays because they offer free or almost free drinks for women. A fairly low-class club where you should watch your drinks. As always the case in Moscow, there will be cute girls here on any day of the week but it’s nowhere near as good as on the weekend.

In a nutshell, that is all you need to know about where to meet Moscow girls in nightlife. There are tons of options, and it all depends on what best fits your style, based on the type of girls that you’re looking for.