2023 Trek Fuel EXe Review | This brand new lightweight e-MTB is the stealthiest we’ve ever tested

The not-so-minor details.

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS

https://www.trekbikes.com

$13,999 USD

- The near-silent motor performance - Solid chassis with excellent weight distribution - Great geometry and all-round handling - Supportive suspension offers exceptional control at speed - Sleek frame is low on e-bulk - The 9.8 model is surprisingly well priced

- Highly damped RockShox suspension isn't the plushest - TQ motor can lag - Not as light as some of its competitors - Rear axle lever makes noise while riding - Crankset Q-Factor is very wide

Mick & Wil review the Trek Fuel EXe

Following two years of development, the Trek Fuel EXe launches as a brand new electric mountain bike for 2023. Aiming to straddle the gap between the Rail (Trek’s full-powered, big travel e-MTB) and the regular Fuel EX, the Fuel EXe is built around a unique, never-before-seen motor that is claimed to be one of the quietest and lightest on the market. Along with its slim battery and carbon frame, the Fuel EXe is purported to weigh around 18kg in its lightest configuration, which is a good 5kg lighter than the Rail. That puts it into direct competition with the Specialized Levo SL and Orbea Rise ; two bikes that have had a significant head start in the lightweight e-MTB category. So what exactly does the new Trek Fuel EXe bring to the party? And how does its new motor perform on the trail? We’ve been testing it for the past few weeks to find out!

Watch our Trek Fuel EXe review here:

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Overall it’s a very clean system, and combined with the compact motor and slim downtube, the Fuel EXe does a remarkable job of not looking like an e-MTB.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

An overview of the Trek Fuel EXe

Whereas the Rail is based upon the Slash enduro bike, the Trek Fuel EXe is essentially an electrified version of the Fuel EX trail bike. It features 29in wheels, though it gets a touch more travel with a 150mm fork and 140mm of rear wheel travel courtesy of the ABP four-bar suspension platform.

OCLV Mountain carbon fibre has been employed to construct the Fuel EXe frame, while a two-piece alloy rocker link drives the rear shock via a trunnion bearing mount. Unlike the regular Fuel EX, Rail and Slash that feature Trek’s proprietary Thru Shaft damper, the Fuel EXe relies on a conventional rear shock.

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The compact TQ motor

Powering the Trek Fuel EXe is a brand new and extremely compact motor that has been developed in collaboration with Bavarian company TQ.

TQ has previously been known for producing the 120Nm monster motor found within the Haibike Flyon. Taking the same patented Harmonic Pin-Ring (HPR) mechanism, those clever Germans have shrunken it right down to create what it believes is the lightest and smallest e-MTB motor on the market.

Comprised of just two moving parts, the HPR drive unit doesn’t require a belt or additional cogs, and it spins at an RPM that is three times lower than a conventional motor. Thanks to its simplified construction, the HPR design is claimed to result in fewer operating frequencies, reducing not only the overall decibels produced by the motor, but also lowering the ‘tonality’ (read: annoyance) of the sound.

Despite its compact form, the German-manufactured HPR50 motor delivers a healthy 50Nm of torque and a peak power output of 300W. TQ claims this motor has the highest torque density on the market, while offering seamless power delivery with virtually no lag.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

It’s bloody light too

According to TQ, the HPR50 motor weighs just 1.85kg. That’s lighter than Specialized’s SL 1.1 motor (1.95kg), Fazua’s Ride 60 motor (2.3kg), Shimano’s EP8 (2.6kg) and Bosch’s Performance CX (2.79kg).

To make the most of its weight advantage, the HPR50 motor is paired to a modest 360Wh battery. This is claimed to weigh 1.83kg, which is notably lighter than the 360Wh battery used in the Orbea Rise (2.2kg), and about the same weight as the Specialized Levo SL’s smaller 320Wh battery (1.8kg). The compact battery allows the downtube to be made much slimmer, which results in further weight savings.

Putting the motor and battery together, here’s how the total system weight compares between the new Fuel EXe and its two main competitors;

  • Trek Fuel EXe (50Nm motor & 360Wh battery) – 3.68kg 
  • Specialized Levo SL (35Nm motor & 320Wh battery) – 3.75kg
  • Orbea Rise (60Nm motor & 360Wh battery) – 4.8kg

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Unlike the Levo SL and the Rise, the Fuel EXe’s battery can be easily removed from the frame without having to drop out the motor. This means you can charge it in the bike, or separately if you don’t have a power point in your shed. Trek claims you can fully charge the battery in just two hours with a fast charger.

Trek will also be offering a 160Wh Range Extender battery that customers can purchase separately for $1,199 AUD. Boosting range by a claimed 40%, the piggyback battery is designed to fit into a standard water bottle cage with the addition of a built-in retention strap for security. Unfortunately the Range Extender battery won’t be available in Australia until late 2022 however.

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Tidy, integrated display

Just like the Specialized Levo and Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay , the Trek Fuel EXe features a display that’s integrated directly into the top tube. This 2in O-LED screen forms the control hub for the bike, with a single button that turns the system on and off. This same button is then used to cycle through four pages that display key metrics including battery status, riding speed, average speed, rider power, motor power, and estimated range. Because of its integrated display, the Fuel EXe doesn’t have room for the Knock Block steering limiter, and so omits it entirely.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

A discreet two button controller sits next to the left-hand grip, allowing you to toggle between the Eco, Mid and High assist settings. Holding the top button also engages the Walk mode, which delivers power to the rear wheel when you’re off the bike and pushing uphill.

Bluetooth and ANT+ capability allows the TQ system to pair with your GPS head unit and mobile phone. Further functions can be unlocked via the Trek Central app, which offers navigation and integration with third party apps. You can use the app to tune the motor’s assistance levels, and it’ll also provide you with tyre and suspension pressure recommendations if you’re using a TireWiz and AirWiz.

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Geometry & mullet capability

Without a bulky motor getting in the way, there are few compromises forced upon the suspension layout and geometry of the Trek Fuel EXe. For example, the chainstay length sits at an impressive 440mm, which is quite short given the 29in rear wheel and 2.5in tyre clearance. Trek has also chosen to stick with conventional Boost hub spacing and a 55mm chainline, so there’s nothing funky in terms of standards.

With the Mino Link flip chip set in the Low position, the Fuel EXe features a 64.7° head angle, a 76.7° seat angle and a 38.5mm BB drop. In the High position those angles steepen by 0.5° and the BB lifts by almost 7mm.

In that same High setting, Trek also states that the Fuel EXe can be run as a mullet with a 27.5in rear wheel. This will affect the motor’s output and 25km/h cutoff point however, as there’s currently no way for users to adjust the rear wheel circumference in the TQ system.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Trek Fuel EXe price & specs

Globally, there will be six Trek Fuel EXe models offered for 2023. Only three of those models will be available in Australia, with prices starting at $9,499 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.5, and maxing out at $12,999 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT.

All Fuel EXe models make use of the same TQ-HPR50 motor, 360Wh battery and OCLV carbon frame. There will be no alloy models for the foreseeable future.

The bike we’ve been testing is the top-end Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS, which in the States will come with a staggering retail price of $13,999 USD (that’s approximately $20,000 AUD!). It features RockShox Ultimate-level suspension, Bontrager Line Pro carbon wheels, a one-piece RSL carbon bar and stem, a SRAM XX1 AXS drivetrain, Code RSC brakes and a Reverb AXS dropper post. While this model won’t be available in Australia, aside from the wireless bits the spec isn’t drastically different from the 9.8 XT. As usual though, our review won’t be focussing a whole lot on the individual components, but rather the important stuff that’s shared throughout the range; the frame, handling, suspension and drive system.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.8 xt

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT

  • Frame | OCLV Mountain Carbon Fibre, ABP Suspension Design, 140mm Travel
  • Fork | RockShox Lyrik Select+, Charger 3 Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
  • Shock | RockShox Super Deluxe Select+, RT Damper, 205x60mm
  • Drive Unit | TQ-HPR50, 50Nm Peak Torque
  • Battery | TQ 360Wh
  • Wheels | Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
  • Tyres | Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
  • Drivetrain | Shimano XT 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Race Carbon 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
  • Brakes | Shimano XT 4-Piston
  • Bar |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 27.5mm Rise, 820mm Width
  • Stem | Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 45mm Length
  • Seatpost | Bontrager Line Elite, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L), 200mm (XL)
  • Saddle | Bontrager Arvada, Austentite Rails
  • Claimed Weight | 18.1kg
  • RRP | $12,999 AUD

2023 trek fuel exe 9.7 slx/xt

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.7

  • Fork | Fox Rhythm 36, GRIP Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
  • Shock | Fox Float X, Performance Series, 2-Position Damper, 205x60mm
  • Wheels | Bontrager Line Comp 30, Alloy Rims, 29mm Inner Width
  • Tyres | Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
  • Drivetrain | Shimano SLX 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Race Alloy 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
  • Brakes | Shimano Deore 4-Piston
  • Bar | Bontrager Line, Alloy, 27.5mm Rise, 780mm Width
  • Stem | Bontrager Elite, 45mm Length
  • Seatpost | TranzX Dropper, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L-XL)
  • Claimed Weight | 19.05kg
  • RRP | $10,999 AUD

2023 trek fuel exe 9.5

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

  • Fork | RockShox 35 Gold RL, Motion Control Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
  • Shock | RockShox Deluxe Select+, RT Damper, 205x60mm
  • Wheels | Bontrager Sealed Bearing Hubs & Alex MD35 Alloy Rims, 34mm Inner Width
  • Drivetrain | Shimano Deore 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Plus 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
  • Brakes | Shimano MT420 4-Piston
  • Bar | Bontrager Rhythm Comp, Alloy, 15mm Rise, 750mm Width
  • Stem | Bontrager Alloy, 50mm Length
  • Claimed Weight | 19.93kg
  • RRP | $9,499 AUD

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Noise isn’t everything, but geez it’s nice when you’re on a quiet bike. And in this regard, the Fuel EXe sets a whole new benchmark that we expect other brands will attempt to follow over the coming few years.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Trek Fuel EXe sizing & fit

Deviating from the regular Fuel EX, which comes in six sizes, the Trek Fuel EXe will only be available in four. To suit our 175-178cm testers we chose the Medium, which features a 452mm reach.

We had few complaints with sizing, though the stock handlebars are comically wide at 820mm. Those were promptly chopped down to a more conventional 780mm width, which proved to be a better fit with the 45mm ‘virtual’ stem length.

While the big diameter seat tube is nice and short, the 150mm dropper post limited our freedom of movement when riding down steep descents and along jump trails. We’d prefer to see a 170-180mm dropper on a bike that’s as capable as this.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Otherwise the Fuel EXe cockpit is a comfortable place to be thanks to the agreeable Bontrager saddle and lock-on grips. The seat tube angle isn’t too steep, with neutral weight distribution that doesn’t put a load of pressure on your hands. There’s plenty of adjustability thanks to the long saddle rails for those who do want to shunt it forward for a more aggressive climbing position.

Where the Fuel EXe definitely feels like an e-MTB is in its Q-Factor. Although the TQ-HPR50 motor is very compact, the fat e*13 carbon crank arms see the pedalling width blow out considerably. We measured the Q-Factor at 195mm, which is wider than any other e-MTB we’ve tested, and around 20mm wider than a regular mountain bike. Many riders will be unfazed by the difference, and indeed the wider stance can improve your overall stability on the bike. However, flat pedal riders will need to be wary when riding through deep ruts, and those with sensitive knees may simply find the Q-Factor to be too wide for comfort.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Suspension setup

The rear shock on the Trek Fuel EXe is designed to be run with 30% sag, a process that’s made easy thanks to the anodised gradients on the RockShox Super Deluxe.

Jose Gonzalez of Trek’s Suspension Lab explained to us that the Fuel EXe does have a slightly lower leverage rate compared to the regular Fuel EX, and the rear shock has been valved with a medium compression tune. The aim here is to provide more support to handle the additional weight of the battery and motor. Because of the greater damping forces generated by the shock, we trended towards having the compression adjusters backed off from the neutral setting. High-speed was set at minus two clicks (fully open) and the low-speed dial was set at minus one click. Rebound was set a couple of clicks faster than halfway to suit our 68-75kg testers.

Up front is the new 2023 RockShox Lyrik that features the new DebonAir+ spring and Charger 3 damper. RockShox recommends an extra 10psi for this fork when it’s fitted to an e-MTB, but we found this pressure to be too high when paired with the highly supportive Charger 3 damper. We ended up running 10psi less than recommended on the chart, set the rebound on the faster side, ran the high-speed compression at minus one click, and set the low-speed adjuster a few clicks lighter than neutral.

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Trek Fuel EXe weight

Confirmed weight for our Trek Fuel EXe XX1 AXS test bike is 18.6kg, weighed without pedals and with the tyres set up tubeless.

That’s an impressive weight for a full suspension e-MTB, especially when you factor in the aggressive Bontrager tyres, powerful brakes and piggyback shock. Still, it’s not quite as light as some of its competitors;

  • Specialized Levo SL Expert – 17.84kg
  • Orbea Rise M10 – 18.38kg
  • Trek Fuel EXe XX1 AXS – 18.6kg
  • Specialized Kenevo SL Expert – 19.12kg

When you consider that the Fuel EXe is the only bike in that list with carbon wheels and crank arms, as well as a one-piece cockpit, its weight becomes a little less impressive. Given that the Fuel EXe supposedly has the lightest drive system out of the lot, we suspect some of the additional weight is found in the frame itself. That’s no bad thing, especially if it equates to having a stiffer and more robust chassis.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

What does the Trek Fuel EXe do well?

When riding the Trek Fuel EXe the first thing you notice, or more accurately don’t notice, is just how quiet the TQ-HPR50 motor is. No doubt about it, this is easily the quietest e-MTB we’ve ever ridden.

The overall decibel output is low, and the motor’s pitch is significantly less prominent than other motors we’ve ridden. Rather than droning or whining, the TQ-HPR50 motor emits a more discreet sound that’s a bit like a gentle breeze whistling through the trees. Furthermore, there’s no annoying clacking noise on the descents like you’ll find with the latest Shimano and Bosch drive units. The TQ motor does feature an integrated freewheel that allows the drive wheel to disengage from the cranks to minimise drag, but despite this we couldn’t detect any obvious noise when descending on rocky trails.

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Indeed the motor and chassis are well damped, with very little vibration or rattling present. While riding back-to-back with our Canyon Spectral:ON test bike, which features a cavernous downtube and a Shimano EP8 motor, the difference in trail noise was stark. Noise isn’t everything, but geez it’s nice when you’re on a quiet bike. And in this regard, the Fuel EXe sets a whole new benchmark that we expect other brands will attempt to follow over the coming few years.

Initially the muted motor gave the illusion of providing us with less assistance. This is because the power delivery is less obvious than a louder, whinier motor. However, a glance at our average riding speeds had us soon correcting that illusion.

Of course there’s not as much punch compared to the bigger 85-90Nm motors on the market, which is to be expected. During our standardised range test (more on that below), climbing speeds aboard the Fuel EXe hovered around 14km/h, compared to 18km/h on an EP8-equipped bike. This means you’ll be working harder on the Fuel EXe if all your pals are riding on full-powered e-MTBs.

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Still, if you only ever ride singletrack aboard your e-MTB in the Eco or Trail assist settings, the TQ motor is likely to meet your needs. This will especially be the case for lighter and fitter riders, who will find the 50Nm output to be just about perfect for trail riding.

Well-damped suspension & no-fuss handling

It isn’t just the motor that’s quiet either, with the Trek Fuel EXe delivering a nicely damped ride quality that’s complemented by the distinct lack of any slurping noises from the fork’s new Charger 3 damper.

The carbon chassis feels stout and reliable, with no hint of twisting or excessive flex under load. It somehow manages to achieve this sensation without feeling harsh or pingy, and instead offers an accommodating platform that allows you to push it quite hard without fear of being punished for less calculated line choices.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

The top-notch suspension plays into this beautifully when you’re smashing down rowdy descents. The Lyrik’s mid-stroke is particularly good, offering a heap of support with plenty of big hit damping control that encourages you to let off the brakes when gravity takes over.

While the suspension is good, it’s worth acknowledging that the Fuel EXe is not as plush as the Rail. Along with its lower overall weight, it can’t monster-truck down wide-open terrain like the Rail can.

The Fuel EXe takes the upper hand as the trail gets squigglier though, with less exaggeration required from your handling inputs. The smaller and shorter battery puts less weight up towards the head tube, helping to centralise and lower the bike’s centre of mass. Combined with the stout frame, there’s very little understeer present with the Fuel EXe. Compared to bigger and heavier e-MTBs, it never feels like it’s trying to push wide or ride away from you.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

The excellent handling and weight distribution makes the Fuel EXe an easier bike to ride for less experienced riders. For more advanced pilots, the Fuel EXe delivers a thoroughly involving ride quality. Yes it’s still an 18kg bike, but it’s far more playful than the heavier Rail, with the shorter chainstays helping to encourage front wheel popping shenanigans.

It dips into corners without requiring constant persuasion, and it takes to the air well too, maintaining a steady trajectory without making you feel like you’re an unwilling passenger. There’s a heap of support from the suspension for soaking up ill-timed landings when things do go awry, with the shock’s Hydraulic Bottom Out ramping up the travel in the final 20% of the stroke. While the O-ring indicated we’d used full travel on many occasions, not once were we able to detect it while riding.

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What does it struggle with?

Though the progressive RockShox suspension on the Trek Fuel EXe offers bucketloads of high-speed control, it does feel quite aggressively damped on smaller chatter. This is more so the case with the new Lyrik, which hasn’t amazed us with its small-bump compliance, transmitting more feedback through to our hands.

The fork on our test bike has improved noticeably over the first dozen rides as the seals and bushings have bedded in, and there’s no denying the incredible support and control that the Charger 3 damper brings. However, the Fuel EXe hasn’t exactly delivered a cloud-like ride quality, certainly not compared to the floaty Spectral:ON we’ve been testing alongside it. For this reason, we’d be curious to try out the Fuel EXe 9.7 to see whether its Fox suspension package brings about a more supple ride.

We’ll point out that heavier and more aggressive riders may not encounter the same experience as us. And it has to be said that the damping support does make the Fuel EXe a highly responsive and rewarding bike to ride. Still, those eager for the cushiest ride on the chunkiest of terrain will likely be better served by the Rail.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Overall we’ve been impressed by the usable and natural-feeling support from the TQ-HPR50 motor. It doesn’t spike or surge, offering a nicely progressive power band that makes it predictable and easy to modulate on tricky climbs. The 25km/h cutoff point is about as seamless it gets, and because the motor is so quiet, it’s difficult to tell when the motor has disengaged from the cranks.

It took us a few rides to get used to though, as it can occasionally lag before the power starts to come on. Spinning a lower gear at a slightly higher cadence seems to be its preferred input, though we’ve not found it to be as adept at responding to rapid changes in RPM compared to some other e-MTB motors.

There are options to tune the TQ motor via the Trek Central app, which allows you to tweak the pedal response, assist factor and the maximum power of each of the three settings. Unfortunately the app hasn’t been available prior to the Fuel EXe’s public launch, so we’re yet to play around with those tuning options. We’ll be exploring more of that functionality over the coming weeks of riding.

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What range can you get with the Trek Fuel EXe?

Depending on the terrain, most of our rides on the Trek Fuel EXe have typically racked up 1,000-1,300m of elevation gain over a distance of 30-38km. We’ve mostly utilised the Mid power setting, which strikes a nice balance for general trail riding.

It’s been mighty helpful having the battery status displayed as a percentage, and the remaining ride time and range estimations have proven to be surprisingly accurate. When you do get down to the final 10% on the battery, the motor’s power output automatically lowers a few notches to help conserve what’s left. It doesn’t totally limp home though, retaining a usable level of support all the way down to 0%. When you have finally cooked the goose, the lack of drag through the TQ motor means it’s not an awful experience to ride the Fuel EXe on human power alone.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

To see how the Fuel EXe’s efficiency compares directly to some of the other e-MTBs we’ve reviewed, we subjected it to our standardised range test. This involves the same rider pedalling up a road climb with a 10% average grade, with the motor set to its most powerful setting, before bombing back down a singletrack descent. The idea is to see how much elevation, and how many laps each bike can rack up on a single charge, while keeping the variables as constant as possible.

Here’s how the Fuel EXe faired in our range test;

  • Norco Sight VLT (Shimano EP8, 900Wh Battery) – 2,478m climbing (12.8 runs)
  • Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay (Dyname 4.0, 720Wh Battery) – 2,108m climbing (10.9 runs)
  • Cube Stereo Hybrid 160 (Bosch Gen 4, 625Wh Battery) – 1,800m climbing (9.3 runs)
  • Canyon Spectral:ON (Shimano EP8, 630Wh Battery) – 1,570m climbing (8 runs)
  • Orbea Rise (Shimano EP8-RS, 360Wh Battery) – 1,388m climbing (7.2 runs)
  • Specialized Levo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,377m climbing (7.1 runs)
  • Trek Fuel EXe (TQ-HPR50, 360Wh Battery) – 1,312m climbing (6.8 runs)
  • Specialized Kenevo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,053m climbing (5.5 runs)

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

As you can tell by those figures, the Fuel EXe managed to achieve considerably more range than the Kenevo SL, and not just because it has a larger capacity battery. The Fuel EXe is also lighter, comes fitted with faster-rolling tyres and features a more efficient suspension platform.

It didn’t get quite as much as the Levo SL however, and there are reasons for that. The 35Nm output of the Levo SL’s motor is naturally less demanding in terms of its fuel requirements, since it delivers a slower average riding speed. This makes the Fuel EXe a noticeably quicker bike on the climbs, which isn’t accounted for in our range test data.

Given the Orbea Rise has the same capacity battery as the Fuel EXe and a more powerful motor on paper, how did it achieve more range? The simple explanation is the tyres. The Rise M10 we tested was fitted with a lighter and much faster rolling Maxxis Dissector and Rekon tyre combo, which likely accounts for the difference.

Of course it’d be possible to get more range out of the Fuel EXe by fitting lower profile tyres, and you can also utilise the lower assist settings to reduce power consumption. Once the Range Extender batteries are available, Fuel EXe owners will have the opportunity to boost range by up to 40%, which will see it get closer to some of those bigger capacity e-MTBs.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs range extender battery

Component highs & lows

As mentioned earlier, we won’t be dwelling on the components of our Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS test bike. And truth be told, there’s not a lot to be said about the ultra high-end build kit that we haven’t discussed before.

We’ve largely ignored the TireWiz and AirWiz gizmos to begin with, partly because we’ve been experimenting with tyre and suspension setup. However, we’ll be delving more into their functionality now that we have access to the Trek Central app that pairs with the sensors to provide live readings and recommendations.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs bontrager se5

It is worth touching on the new Bontrager SE5 tyres, which are spec’d on each Fuel EXe model. These 2.5in wide tyres feature a Minion DHR II-inspired tread pattern and a dual compound mix that combines a firmer 61a rubber in the centre tread, and softer 50a rubber for the cornering blocks. They’re built upon the Core Strength casing, which combines sidewall protection with a sub-tread reinforcement for puncture protection. The result is a solid, durable and well-damped tyre that isn’t overly stiff on the trail, while also feeling predictable across a broad range of surfaces. They’re decent all-rounders, though they aren’t as tacky as a Maxxis 3C compound or a Specialized T9 tyre. If this were our bike, we’d likely be fitting something softer up front for a little more bite.

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There have been some mild annoyances on our test bike, like the rattling thru-axle lever at the rear dropout. Thankfully this lever can be removed, though you do lose its handy 6mm hex key. That didn’t matter too much as the fork’s steerer tube comes loaded with a Bontrager BITS multi-tool inside. The tool can be a bit tricky to remove, and we also found the bits have a habit of coming loose, allowing them to rattle around inside the steerer. Once tightened up, the Fuel EXe returned to its blissfully silent state.

We love how the TQ display sits flush with the top tube, though it’d be nice to see a clock offered on one of the data screens. The option to display cadence would also be useful, especially while getting accustomed to the TQ motor’s output. The controller offers a nice tactile platform with an audible, yet discreet ‘beep’ whenever you switch assist levels. However, accessing the Walk mode requires you to constantly press down the top button with your thumb, which is awkward when you’re holding onto the bars and pushing the bike up a steep and slippery incline.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Otherwise all the electrics on the Fuel EXe have proven to be totally functional. Being able to easily remove the battery will be a welcome feature for anyone who needs to charge it separately to where the bike is stored, and we like that the main charge port is located high up on the downtube where it’s protected by a thick rubber plug. Internally there’s also an automatic lock built into the main battery’s connector, basically eliminating any chance of the cable coming loose while bouncing down the trail. Sure they’re only small details, but they’re also clear signs of a well-considered design.

Trek Fuel EXe vs Specialized Levo SL vs Orbea Rise

Over the past year we’ve spent a load of time aboard two of the Trek Fuel EXe’s main rivals; the Specialized Levo SL and Orbea Rise. So how do these bikes compare?

Specialized Levo SL

2022 specialized levo sl expert

Specialized launched the Levo SL at the start of 2020, which shows just how far behind Trek and most other brands have been. No, the Levo SL wasn’t the first lightweight e-MTB to hit the market, but it is the bike that has legitimised the category.

The Levo SL is built around the SL 1.1 motor, which you’ll also find in the Kenevo SL and the Creo e-Road bike. This motor dishes out 35Nm of peak torque, making it considerably less powerful compared to the TQ motor in the Fuel EXe. It’s also much noisier, emitting an annoyingly whiny pitch that takes a while for the rider to tune out. However, the SL 1.1 motor does offer more intuitive power delivery, and it’s also better at handling high-cadence pedalling spurts.

In terms of ride quality, the Levo SL delivers noticeably plusher and more active suspension performance, which makes it a comfortable bike to pedal over choppy terrain. It does have 10mm more travel at the rear, though the suspension kinematic and shock tune also feels lighter compared to the Fuel EXe. We have found it easier to bottom out the Levo SL, and the sensation is harsh with the Float DPX2 shock.

2022 specialized levo sl expert

The Levo SL’s handling is nice and lively, though the front-end steering is a little light with the 51mm fork offset, resulting in some twitchiness at speed. In comparison the Fuel EXe feels better balanced across a range of riding speeds thanks to its solid chassis and well-damped suspension. It’s no doubt the more modern bike of the two, making the two year-old Levo SL feel a little outdated.

It also has to be said that the Fuel EXe kills it on value compared to the Levo SL. The Levo SL Expert we tested features a Fox 36 GRIP2 fork and Float DPX2 shock, alloy Roval wheels, a SRAM GX/X01 drivetrain and Code RS brakes. In comparison, the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT gets a similar level of suspension albeit with a Shimano XT groupset, carbon wheels, carbon cranks and a one-piece carbon cockpit. Despite featuring a higher-end spec, the Fuel EXe sells for $2,100 AUD less , making for a far more appealing package.

orbea rise

The Orbea Rise arrived not long after the Levo SL at the tail-end of 2020, though it took a slightly different tact by taking an off-the-shelf Shimano EP8 motor and de-tuning it to reduce the peak torque output to 60Nm. Orbea also developed its own ‘RS’ firmware for the Japanese motor, which aimed to provide a more natural feel to the power delivery while improving efficiency. This was then paired to a smaller 360Wh battery and a gorgeously svelte carbon frame to deliver complete bike weights from as low as 16.2kg.

The more sensibly-spec’d Rise M10 we tested came in at 18.38kg, though it was fitted with lightweight Maxxis tyres that felt somewhat out of place. With more appropriate rubber, the Rise would likely come in at a similar weight to the Fuel EXe.

While value for money from Orbea is better than Specialized, it’s still not as impressive as the Fuel EXe. The Rise M10 comes with blingy Factory Series Fox suspension, a Shimano SLX/XT drivetrain and alloy Race Face wheels, but sells for two grand more than the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT.

orbea rise

On the trail the Rise is a closer match to the Fuel EXe. The geometry is pretty similar, though the Rise chassis doesn’t feel quite as stout when being pushed hard. This also comes down to the steeper head angle (65.5° vs 64.7°), and it’s also due to the suspension, which is marginally more sensitive off-the-top. It delivers terrific traction and a comfortable ride quality, though it’s not as supportive as the Fuel EXe.

Speaking of suspension, we wouldn’t be opposed to seeing both the Rise and Fuel EXe equipped with 150mm of rear travel like the Levo SL. Sure these are lightweight e-MTBs, but travel is travel, and we’re still talking about 18+kg bikes that are capable of going very fast on rough terrain. That said, any increase might see them encroaching too far into the territory of their bigger travel, full-powered siblings (the Wild FS and Rail).

We found there to be terrific power on tap from the Rise’ EP8-RS motor, and the E-Tube app allows you to tweak the acceleration response and assistance character of each setting, depending on how you want the power to come on. The stock tune works mighty well though, with the Rise being an efficient performer that feels natural and intuitive on the trail, with just a fraction more punch available for scaling crux features on a technical climb.

As mentioned earlier, the Shimano EP8 drive unit is much noisier than the Fuel EXe’s TQ motor, which is basically silent in comparison – both on the climbs and on the descents. We also prefer the clean integration of the TQ system, with its bright and easy-to-read top tube display. The standard display on the Rise is a rather austere junction box that features a couple of tiny LEDs. You can upgrade this to the Shimano EM800 display for an additional fee, though it comes with additional wires that add clutter to the cockpit. It’s plenty functional, just not as tidy as the Fuel EXe.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Flow’s Verdict

The Trek Fuel EXe is a terrific example of just how far e-MTB technology has come. Not only is it a fantastic looking bike that’s low on bulk, it also manages to deliver a load of performance out of an impressively lightweight package.

The unique TQ motor is stunningly quiet, and for many riders its 50Nm output will be ideal. Heavier folks and those chasing maximum power with maximum range will still be better served by the Rail and is full-powered Bosch motor. The Rail also features a plusher ride quality that suits brainless bombing down the roughest descents.

In comparison the Fuel EXe is a more involving bike to ride, and it rewards an active pilot that seeks to work and play with the terrain. It’s responsive and fun to ride on twisty singletrack, with the sort of on-point handling and geometry that we expect we’ll be seeing in the next generation Fuel EX.

While the suspension isn’t buttery smooth over smaller chatter, it does produce a heap of support and incredible control at higher speeds. Along with the stout chassis, the Fuel EXe exhibits a well-damped ride quality that shrugs off the big hits and awkward landings despite not having a tonne of travel.

Indeed for those riders who are looking for that hallowed middle-ground between a regular mountain bike and an e-MTB, the Fuel EXe presents one of the most compelling options to date.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 electric emtb

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trek fuel exe ride without battery

  • Cycling Magazine

Long-term review: Trek Fuel EXe shifts the standard for eMTB

Nearly silent and so fun to ride.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Electric mountain bikes are rapidly maturing, in design and technology. When Trek launched the EXe, the lightweight eMTB with its TQ motor represented a big step forward in what was possible for the electric category.

I was really impressed with the EXe out of the gates. After spending several months on Trek’s new bike, that hasn’t faded in the slightest. Here’s what makes the EXe so great, where it could improve as well as what to expect – and what not to expect – from this lightweight eMTB.

We covered a lot of details about what set this eMTB apart when the EXe launched and there is a lot to cover in the review. So for details on the bike, hit the launch . For details on how it rides – which, really, is the important part – read on.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Review: Trek Fuel EXe

The EXe follows the design of Trek’s new Fuel EX closely. Very closely. Or, rather, leads that design, since it was released first. Both bikes feature 140mm of rear wheel travel with 150mm front suspension, modern (slack, low, long reach) geometry, but with efficient suspension that keeps the bikes quick and snappy on the trail. The ability to run a 27.5″ rear wheel with the 29″ front gives the option to make the bikes even more playful in corners and controlled on steeps. The main difference, other than a drive unit, is that the EXe only has a Mino-Link while the EX has several other geometry adjustments.

Honestly, the EXe is really fun to ride. It’s quicker and nimbler than any other eMTB I’ve ridden. It is way closer to the easy movement and balanced weight of a full-powered mountain bike than any electric bike on the market right now. You don’t have to hit the gym before you ride if you want to pull the front end up for mid-trail manuals. You can actually move the back end around with ease, instead of forethought and effort. Basically, all the skills you have on a normal mountain bike transfer over with little to minimal adjustments. You just also get a motor. One that is so small, it sometimes took people a while to realize I was on an eMTB.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

There's a motor hiding behine that drivetrain.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

A slightly wider downtube isthe only other hint that the EXe is hiding a drive system

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Trek also launched an updated Central app to customize the TQ system. . Photo: Sterling Lorence

trek fuel exe ride without battery

TQ HPR50: The little motor that could

The heart of Trek’s EXe is TQ’s HRP50 system. The German brand takes a completely different approach to motor design for bikes and it changes the game. It doesn’t render larger motors irrelevant, but it makes a different kind of bike possible. To start with, the harmonic pin ring transmission is light. The motor weighs just 1.85kg and, with a 360Wh battery and controls, the entire system weighs just 3.9kg.

TQ’s HRP50 is also much smaller. Small enough that, when I ran into other riders in the woods, it often took them a while to notice I was on an electric bike. The wider downtube on the EXe is more of a giveaway, really, than the diminutive HRP50.

Finally, the harmonic pin ring transmission design is quiet and smooth. Really, the only downside, compared to traditional eMTB at least, is that it only carries 50Nm of torque. For many, though, that will be all the support you need, or want, from a mountain bike.

Trek Fuel EXe review - TQ HRP50 motor

Sound of silence

I don’t need a fancy graph or sciencey words like “tonality” to tell you that the EXe is quiet. It’s barely perceptible unless you’re in the highest support mode. Even then, it’s quiet. That’s when I was riding the bike for review purposes, so I was intently focusing trying to hear the bike. I verified that it was actually quiet by riding with a few analog friends. They confirmed they rarely noticed any noise coming from the motor.

Sounds that are louder than the motor include, but are not limited to: the tires, when rolling on basically any surface; the Line Pro 30 hubs freewheeling; the AXS shifting; the sound of wind in your helmet; casual conversation. Bottom line, the TQ HRP50 does make a noise, but you have to be paying attention to notice it.

Power and poise

The TQ doesn’t just sound good, though. It feels good to ride. Every rider will have a different idea of what a “natural” assist feels like, but the TQ tops the ranks in my books. It’s far and away better than any other drive unit when pedalling out of the saddle, delivering smooth and consistent power without surges. That’s the same for pedalling seated. The HRP50 comes on smooth and tapers off in a way that feels similar to how you would lose speed on a normal bike. The power engages quickly, but without any of the jolt or kick of some higher-powered motors. With 50Nm of torque, you’ll still have to put in some effort to get the EXe up steeper grades, of course. But on all but the steepest trails, its an impressively smooth support that makes you feel like a fitter rider, not feel like you’re riding a mini-moto.

The only minor issue I had with the motor’s performance came when, during the odd time spinning the cranks through tight corners but not actually putting power down, it would stutter as it re-engaged. It would still engage just fine, but a half-second later than expected. This wasn’t every time, and it didn’t happen when I coasted or when I kept power on through the corner, but something about spinning the cranks seemed to confuse the system slightly.

All in all, the way TQ’s drive unit works doesn’t just feel better, it makes technical riding easier. You don’t have to factor in when and how the motor will engage as  you approach a root or rock move.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Hardwired wireless AXS shifting.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Rock Shox Super Deluxe Ultimate AirWiz shock keeps the EXe tracking smooth.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Bontrager Line Pro 30 carbon fibre wheels with built-in TireWiz pressure gauges

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Rock Shox Lyric Ultimate with AirWiz

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Bontrager RSL integrated carbon fibre bar-stem looks sharp, especially with the wireless set-up.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Trek EXe 9.9 AXS

Trek pulls no punches for the top-end EXe. There’s a few curiosities and fancy features exclusive to the 9.9 AXS. Most notably, the wired SRAM AXS rear derailleur. While there’s something ironic about adding a wire to a wireless derailleur, I’ll admit I loved having it automatically charge when I charged the main battery. The trade-off is that the bike needs to be turned on to shift at all. So if you run out of juice, or just want to shift down the cassette to take a wheel off, you need some power. The Rock Shox Reverb AXS, though, still uses its own battery.

Trek equips the 9.9 AXS with its carbon fibre RSL bar-stem combo and the carbon fiber Line Pro 30 wheels. In combination with the stout EXe frame, it is a very rigid build. This is great when you’re carving manicured berms. But I found it overly harsh, to the point of being tiring, on any sort of sustained rough trails. Switching out the bars or the wheels to more forgiving options helped take just enough of the edge off (I tried both, in various combinations. We Are One’s Convert wheels were just forgiving enough to balance out the EXe for my personal preferences) making the 9.9 a rocket ship, but one that I could control.

There are also TireWiz and ShockWiz gadgets built into the Line Pro 30 rims and the RockShox suspension. I’m neither here nor there on that feature. If you like it and use it, great. I’m not that particular, or that irregular with checking pressures, that I ever found it useful. But the Wiz’s didn’t cause any problems during the test period, either.

The only difficulty I had with the EXe was that, eventually, some bolts holding the TQ motor did eventually loosen off. That is with a complete lack of service or maintenance over weeks of hard riding, though. So the minimum of regular maintenance should prevent that from becoming an issue at all.

All this comes in for a shocking $18,300. That is comparable to what other top-end eMTB are going for but still a lot of money. If you don’t have that kind of scratch kicking around, the EXe 9.5, at $8,400, still features a carbon fibre frame and TQ’s mini motor.

Trek Fuel EXe review - TQ black-and-white display showing battery life

Lightweight eMTBs – Battery life, power, weight: choose two

There’s an old saying in mountain biking: “Light weight, durable, inexpensive: choose two.” The idea is that you can’t have everything you want, for free. A modified version for lightweight eMTB would be “Range, power, weight: choose two.” (Because, well, there’s no lightweight eMTB’s that could be reasonably described as “inexpensive,” yet). With the EXe, Trek deliver’s on weight and sacrifices a little on power and weight. Depending on how you like to ride, this bike either hits the sweet spot or leaves something to be desired.

Personally, I really like where Trek landed. It gets you enough support for a reasonably big ride – more than I’d do every day. It has enough power that  you can get a lot more out of your ride, without feeling like it does everything for you. And, most importantly, it feels more like a mountain bike than an electric bike than any other eMTB I’ve ridden at this point.

Trek Fuel EXe review

Range anxiety and riding with friends: where does a lightweight eMTB fit in?

To stick with the dime store philosophy, my family has a saying passed down (repeatedly) by one uncle in particular: “You can pick your friends, and you can pick your nose, but you can’t pick your friend’s nose.” What does that have to do with mountain bikes? Well, the mid-power, mid-range of the EXe might, depending on your friends, change group ride dynamics. Because you can pick your friends and how you ride, but you can’t pick how they ride. And you definitely can’t stop a friend on a full-power eMTB from hitting turbo mode and dropping you on a climb.

The problem is similar to the problem with all ebikes: one of power differences. Since lightweight eMTB’s are still relatively new, they’re also sort of exclusive. Can you ride with full-power e-friends? Or analog buddies? The answer to both is “it depends.”

Trek’s EXe is the first eMTB that is still exciting to ride with unassisted friends. Turn down the power to match the unassisted pace of your buddy and it isn’t quite like riding without a motor, but the feeling is actually really close. Just a bit easier. And, of course, it’s really quiet. Point downhill, and the sensations are, again, really close to what your freind is riding. That, on its own, will be exciting to any eMTB converts that have struggled riding with analog friends.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Riding with full-power eMTB is a different beast. If your friends are nice, you can keep up fine, but just won’t be able to cover the same distance. If your friends are a bunch of bros that just want to blast up the fireroad or steepest trail around to get to the top as fast as possible, you’re going to struggle to keep up. Either way, you’re going to be experiencing some “range anxiety” as you watch the EXe’s power bar deplete before full-battery friends even start thinking about conserving fuel. So, pick your friends wisely, because you can’t pick how they’ll ride.

That’s not to say the EXe doesn’t have enough range. It just doesn’t have the over-the-top range of some modern eMTB. With a 360Wh battery, Trek supplies enough juice to get through rides that would be big efforts without the assist. Exact range will vary by terrain and rider, of course. But, at roughly 80kg, I’d get over 1,000m out of a charge, regularly using full-power. After learning to work with the TQ a bit better, I could regularly get more.

That is a long-winded answer, admittedly, but it’s a question I think a lot of riders will be asking before pulling the trigger on a newer line of eMTB.

Trek Fuel EXe review

Conclusions: Trek EXe and TQ shift the standard for lightweight eMTB

Trek has done an excellent job with the EXe, designing a mid-travel trail bike that fully takes advantage of the opportunities TQ’s small-but-powerful HPR50 creates. The EXe is capable of taking on all kinds of challenging trails, but its also light and snappy enough, for an eMTB, to be fun on a really wide range of trails.

I rode this bike a lot, over a long period and in a wide range of different places. And certainly a wider range of trail types than I’d usually take a full power eMTB on. That is, in part, because it made a wider range of trails fun. Since it is lighter, more maneuverable and more playful, the EXe is more fun on lower-angle, tighter trails than heavier bikes.

Trek’s also made it durable. This bike went through a week straight of big days in the Okanagan and, other than needing to tighten down a few bolts and a scratch to the paint, it came away clean.

The result was that it made the choice between pedaling and taking the assist a lot harder because, well, I knew it would feel more like a mountain bike when I wanted it to. Sure, I had to learn to live with a little range anxiety. Easily worth the trade-off for the performance of the EXe and TQ combo.

Trek EXe 9.9 AXS retails for $18,300 at Trek stores and online through Trekbikes.com .

trek fuel exe ride without battery

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trek fuel exe ride without battery

  • Trek Fuel EXe reviewed (finally)

by Ben Haworth November 6, 2022 56

The new Trek Fuel EXe is an important bike. It’s attracting a lot of attention from the e-curious who don’t think much of the current e-bike offering from elsewhere.

NB: Ignore the price tag of this model. Let’s talk about the bike behind the bling.

  • Brand:  Trek
  • Product:  Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS
  • Price:   £13.250.00 £14,350
  • From: Trek Bikes
  • Review by:  Benji for three months

trek fuel exe

Three things I loved

  • Looks great
  • Less scary on technical terrain than heavier e-bikes
  • Rides like a normal bike

Three things I’d change

  • Range anxiety
  • Wish we’d tested a more affordable version

trek fuel e

A warning. I’m not going to go into great detail about the nuts and bolts of this bike. You can read our ‘ 5 reasons the Trek Fuel EXe is most important bike of the decade ‘ from when the Trek Fuel EXe was announced for that stuff.

Another warning. Nor am I going to talk much about this particular £14,350 showpiece model. It’s a distraction. It actually gets people’s backs up (mine included to be honest). It doesn’t give the Trek Fuel EXe concept a fair chance.

I’m going to focus on the frame, the motor, the battery and the controls. The stuff that’s exactly the same on the £6,400 Trek Fuel EXe 9.5 .

In this review I’m going to focus purely on how a Trek Fuel EXe bike rides.

trek fuel e

For those who do need a quick refresher, or understandably don’t want to click open another browser window for a reminder, the Fuel EXe is Trek’s mid-power e-bike. 50Nm of torque, compared to the 85Nm of full-power e-bikes and the 35Nm of Specialized’s SL low-power e-bikes.

The ostensibly similar – and surely the current main rival – Orbea Rise has 60Nm of torque by the way. And there’s also the new Fazua Ride60 equipped e-bikes with 60Nm too (check out the Pivot Shuttle SL as an example).

The battery is a 360Wh capacity one (same capacity as Orbea Rise). Some full-on ebikes have 700Wh+. A common capacity is 500-600Wh. Specialized SL e-bikes have 325Wh batteries.

trek fuel e

There is also a range extender battery available for the Trek Fuel EXe which gives a further 160Wh, for £450. I would have really liked to have had one of these for this test period but they have yet to land in the UK in large enough numbers to get hold of one. Believe me, I tried.

Perhaps the two main USPs of this bike are its weight and its appearance. It weighs around 40lbs. And it looks like a normal mountain bike. Both of these factors cannot be understated as to their importance with the mountain bike market.

There is a third USP too but it’s only once you’re on the bike and riding that it appears: it is pretty much silent. Honestly, once off-road you can’t hear it. You can only just hear it when riding on the road but even then you have to be going pretty slow for the wind noise not to drown it out.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

The Trek Fuel EXe can pass for a regular mountain bike. And while this might partially be about hiding the ‘shame’ of riding a pedal assist bike, I actually think it’s more to do with people’s existing fondness for their current mountain bike.

Existing experienced mountain bikers like how their mountain bike looks and sounds. The Trek Fuel EXe totally nails the remit of looking and sounding like a normal mountain bike. Massive kudo to Trek for that alone.

Trek Fuel EXe review

I’ll come out and say it. I still don’t really know how I feel about this bike. I’ve been dithering and delaying writing this review for quite some time. The only thing I am sure about is that the Trek Fuel EXe is not for me.

The thing is, I also think it is brilliant. And it will be perfect for loads and loads of riders out there.

In a nutshell, after passing it round as many other riders as I can convince to get on it, everyone says the same thing: “it’s just like a normal bike”. That is exactly what I say too, although I mean it in a confused head-scratching way. Everyone is saying it in a giddy enthused way.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Despite everything, the overarching experience of the Trek Fuel EXe is one of subtlety. It does not blow your mind upon first pedal stroke. Indeed because of the silence and the instant and super natural way the motor assist comes in, a lot of the time you can’t tell you’re getting any assistance at all. There isn’t a visual display confirmation of the assistance level you’re getting either (a la Shimano or Bosch displays).

It feels like not a lot is happening. But it is.

Finish a ride on the Trek Fuel EXe and then instantly hop on a normal mountain bike and the assistance is instantly noticeable by its absence. The Trek Fuel EXe is like riding with a massive tailwind. Or on ascents that have had a few degrees of gradient removed from them. Or you’ve suddenly become twenty years younger. It’s not that climbing becomes whistle-while-you-work easy (which it can do on full-power e-bikes), it’s still pretty strenuous activity on the Trek Fuel EXe.

I’d go as far to say that, unlike full-power e-bikes, the Trek Fuel EXe cannot do things that normal mountain bikes (and/or mountain bikers) can’t do. You won’t be scrabbling up preposterous trials-y techno climb challenges on the Fuel EXe. You won’t be trebling your usual altitude gain. What you will be doing is riding for that extra hour, and doing that extra hill.

What about descending then? Despite ‘only’ weighing 40lbs or so, the Fuel EXe does definitely exhibit some of the suspension flattery that you get with the extra weight of e-bikes. The Fuel EXe is an excellent descender. It’s pretty long and acceptably slack, which helps, but it’s the weight that is the most significant thing at play here.

The suspension on this bike works excellently. So calm. Very supportive. Very grippy. Sure, some of that may be due to the fancier dampers in the top-end suspension parts specced, but my gut feeling is that it’s to do with the sprung/unsprung help that comes when the frame is heavy, particularly the placement of that weight (central and relatively low down).

Compared to full-power (heavier) e-bikes on descents, the Trek Fuel EXe wins some and loses some. It does lose out on some of the super stability and speed-holding of heavier e-bikes. But on the whole, I think I prefer the nimbler handling of the Fuel EXe. Particularly when things are loose. It feels much less scary. Less like the bike is careering away out of control. More confidence inspiring.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

Which brings us to the real surprise arena. Flat stuff.

The Trek Fuel EXe feels most at home on contouring terrain. Or rather, its assistance is more overly felt and appreciated on flatter trails. It’s when you’re not fighting gravity, or using gravity, that the Fuel EXe feels like a rocketship. It feels amazing. It makes you feel like a World Cup XC bod.

It’s also really good fun and capable on technical traverses. Off-cambers. Teetery stuff. Gamble do-you-don’t-you decisions. Ledges, Stream crossings. I felt much less fearful of stumbling and ending up being trapped under a bike, compared to the experience of full-power big-battery e-bikes.

A word here about the motor. They lack of delay is really, really impressive. There’s none of the fear of stopping pedalling (and the subsequent stall/dabbing) as there is with other e-bikes.

There’s also no detectable overrun either (where the motor is still assisting for a brief time even though you’ve stopped pedalling). Whilst some experienced e-bikers will miss the overrun (I did), there is no denying that the combination of instant engagement and instant disengagement really helps make the bike feel incredibly normal.

The controls and the display are fine. Totally intuitive and clear. Again, as an experienced e-biker I did miss the extra info of Shimano and Bosch (even Specialized) displays. But if you’ve never had the info, you’ll not miss it. Again, the Fuel EXe is not for experienced e-bikers. It’s very much a My First E-Bike.

Which bring us to the battery. And here I think there is a bit of an issue. Fundamentally I don’t think the battery is big enough to play to this bike’s strengths. Namely, big days out doing normal mountain biking. I’m not even that sure the aforementioned range extender battery will add enough extra range (for what and where I’d like to go anyway).

On one hand, the Trek Fuel EXe feels very much like a step into the future in terms of aesthetics and acoustics. On another hand, the return of range anxiety feels rather retro.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

I appreciate that the whole battery capacity versus system weight is something of a vicious circle. Would adding one or two kilograms to the bike’s weight significantly impair the bike’s handling? Maybe it would. You do have to draw the line somewhere and it can’t have been an easy or quick decision made by the Trek team.

I think personal preferences come into play a great deal here too. I am a bit of a Boost* fan. I can’t help it. I don’t have the discipline to stay in Eco or Trail modes. With a different rider on board, one who switches to Eco for flat road linking sections, and keeps it in Trail for pretty much everything else.

(*Trek don’t actually give their three different power levels names, so I’m using the common e-bike parlance of Eco, Trail and Boost.)

The top power mode certainly does seem to really rinse the battery significantly more than you’d think. It doesn’t feel (there’s that word again) like it’s giving you that much more assistance, yet it certainly gets the battery bars dropping faster.

Ultimately, I did eventually end up doing rides pretty much keeping it in middle/Trail mode and just leaving Boost well alone. But is that like buying something and then putting it away and never using it? You’ve paid for a bit with 50Nm/300W of assist. Surely you should be able to use it?

Again, I’d like to point out that I haven’t had a range extender battery to test out to see what difference that makes to the Fuel EXe’s MPG.

I did use the top/Boost setting under certain circumstances. Those circumstances being going for a ‘Power Hour’. Those sort of sub-20km lunchtime blasts. Stick the bike in Boost and leave it there until you’re on fumes and need to Eco back home. That felt like a good use for Boost. And certainly opens up that short-but-intense type of ride that is pretty unique to e-bikes. Similarly, Boost was great for de-harshing and funning-up night rides (my night rides are always on the short side).

trek fuel exe ride without battery

This may sound stupid obvious but if you only want a bit of help, that’s what this bike is for. It’s for normal rides. Normal riders. It is a very subtle bike. That subtlety is easily mistaken for being underwhelming. It’s arguably a waste of time to compare the Fuel EXe to full-power e-bikes. Trek do a full-power e-bike (a really ace one called the Trek Rail). Full-power e-bikes are like a new type of vehicle. The Fuel EXe is much closer to a regular unassisted mountain bike.

Fundamentally the Trek Fuel EXe is a beautifully executed machine that is going to be exactly what a great swath of experienced mtbers are looking for. Folk who are just finding mtbing too hard, but still want it to be strenuous. Something that takes the unpleasant edge off but doesn’t remove the ‘joys’ of Type 2 fun altogether.

Ignoring the motor aspect of it altogether, the ride and handling of the Trek Fuel EXe is brilliant. It’s a fantastic trail bike. Nimble and fun but with great stability and planted-ness.

Right. That’s my review finally done. Although I’d quite like this to be the start of an ongoing conversation about this bike. ‘Cos it’s interesting and I’m sure there are things I’ve not covered here.

Questions please! Comment below.

Specification

  • Frame //  OCLV Mountain Carbon 140mm
  • Motor //  TQ-HPR50, 50Nm, 300 watt peak power
  • Battery //  TQ 360Wh
  • Head unit //  TQ handlebar-mounted, TQ LED Display
  • Shock //  RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate AirWiz RCT2, 205 x 60mm
  • Fork //  RockShox Lyrik Ultimate AirWiz Charger 3 RC2 150mm
  • Wheels //  Bontrager Pro Line 30 OCLV Mountain Carbon
  • Front Tyre //  Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 29 x 2.5in
  • Rear Tyre //  Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 29 x 2.5in
  • Chainset //  E*Thirteen E*Spec Race Carbon 34T 165mm
  • Shifter //  SRAM Eagle AXS 12-speed
  • Rear Mech //  SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS 12-speed
  • Cassette //  SRAM Eagle XG-1299 10-52T
  • Brakes //  SRAM Code RSC 200/200mm
  • Stem //  Bontrager RSL Integrated bar/stem 45mm
  • Bars //  Bontrager RSL Integrated bar/stem 820 x 27.5mm
  • Grips //  Bontrager XR Trail Elite lock-on
  • Seatpost //  RockShox Reverb AXS 170mm 34.9mm
  • Size Tested //  L
  • Sizes Available //  S, M, L, XL
  • Weight //  19.3kg

Geometry of our size L test bike

  • Head angle //  65º
  • Effective seat angle //  77º
  • Seat tube length //  435mm
  • Head tube length //  110mm
  • Chainstay //  440mm
  • Wheelbase //  1,245mm
  • Effective top tube //  630mm
  • BB height //  343mm
  • Reach //  485mm

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While you’re here…

Orbea Rise M10 review: just happens to have a motor
Mondraker Crafty Carbon RR review
  • This topic has 56 replies, 27 voices, and was last updated 1 year ago by julians .

Great technical summary and introduction – but should I buy one. Or rather what rider / riding would I be to go for a great half day ride?

Soz, that was supposed to say half fat ride….thanks again 👍

I bought the 9.5 version (and upgraded a few bits) , and posted some thoughts here

New (e)bike day – Trek fuel exe 9.5

Not quite sure what you mean by this bit

There isn’t a visual display confirmation of the assistance level you’re getting either (a la Shimano or Bosch displays).

There is a permanent part of the display showing what assistance mode you are in , plus you can switch to a screen that shows what power you are generating and what power the motor is generating.

Or rather what rider / riding would I be to go for a great half day ride?

I would say that if you find on a full fat ebike you’re usually coming back from a ride with 25-50% battery remaining , or you think that you dont get enough of a workout on a full fat bike, then something like this bike could be for you.

or if you do quite a lot of lifting the bike over stiles & gates, or possibly a lot of hike a bike , or you prioritise downhill handling and playfullness over the ability to fly uphill – but not so much of a priority that you’ll stick with a bike with no motor…

I get that some of the above is quite hard to determine, if you havent actually ridden a full fat bike for a while in the first place.

I think a full fat bike will please more people more of the time, but in an ideal world you’d have a full fat and a lightweight ebike (along with a normal bike or two;-) )

but it’s the weight that is the

Birrova typo?

Thanks for that – helpful 😊

I had a think about this in it’s cheapest spec, but in the end went for the alloy Rise- it’s 540Wh battery, coupled with the Trek price increase, simply made the Trek less attractive.

Further to that, I like my bikes to feel individual- my uplift bike doesn’t have much overlap with my 29+ which is substantially different to the gravel bike. I’d like my e-bike to still feel like an e-bike.

Maybe one day I’ll read a review on a bike with a new motor where somebody provides info about out of warranty motor support, clarifies if the motor is rebuildable, if motor spares are available, if there is a uk motor repair centre, if they’re going to partner with an existing uk repairer etc etc, even how much a new motor costs, and how (*if required) any manufacturer/bike model specific settings get applied to the motor.

As an xc map explorer who prefers long term ownership I was really interested in this bike – lighter (so easier over fences/stiles etc), removable battery (charging at hotel/b&b), large brand so hopefully spares available but I’ve not managed to get any info on how out of warranty support will go so going to sit on the fence till that gets clarified or something else similar comes along.

Similar to Vinnyeh, I looked at these Treks but decided to go with a base model Hydro Rise (540wh battery and under £4k). I was put off by reports of early motor failures on the Trek, but also by the smaller battery (That put me off the carbon Rises too). I don’t want a lot of assistance, but I do want to ride a long way.

Lighter is always nicer imho, but the Trek is really only slightly lighter because of that new (and unproved) motor. And if you are going to save a bit of weight, the bottom bracket area is the last place to save it from: weight here doesn’t make much difference, and it’s where durability is needed most. The Trek keeps the rest of the weight down through having a small battery and a £14k price tag!

Sounds like it pedals nicely, but so does the RS motor. A £5k Trek EXe with a 500+Wh battery, option of range extender and solid warranty support would be more attractive 🙂

Those are really good points and ones which I intend to address in a series of online articles in this fine publication when I do a long term test on the Pivot Shuttle SL. Range, repairability, support post warranty, cost to fix, suitability for big mountain adventures, how it handles, fun – all matter to me. I’ve held off on buying one as the technology is advancing so quickly. I suspect that the technology from bikes like the Trek will filter down to a much more affordable price level. For me, full fat e bikes are generally just too darn heavy for the riding I do.

There is also a feature in the next issue where Mark, Nick Craig and I rode High Street and Skiddaw as a day ride where Nick and I were on normal bikes and Mark on a Levo SL.

^^^ that will be an interesting read Sanny 👍. I love my Levo SL but reckon if I tried the Trek I’d be hankering after one !

£14k…ha, ha, ha. Perfectly suited to the new economic climate. How many 1%ers are keen mtb’ers I wonder. Plus that guy up thread with half my username, are you my brother from another mother?

Ianc and Sanny, we’ll anybody really

See also the haibike Lyke – lower weight e, with removable battery – fazua 60, more power and battery – *seems** to have better range – seems to be cheaper – probs? Well motor as my post above Cables thru headset, but this seems to be getting more common Frame Plug hole appears to be in a ‘well’ at the bottom of the frame – ? Water ingress Weird air hole above motor on frame tube up to seatpost – ? Mud/water ingress onto motor

Those haibike Lykes are a bit 2018 in their geo, long seat tube for any given size,relatively short reach,longish chainstay, but they look decent value if the geo suits what you want.

They’re also using very lightweight tyres on them to hit those headline weight numbers.

The focus jam2 sl looks really good though, fazua 60 motor, decent geo, decent value etc. But they have takenthe bizarre decision to not put a charging port in the frame , meaning that you have to remove the battery from the frame in order to charge it.

Maybe one day I’ll read a review on a bike with a new motor where somebody provides info about out of warranty motor support

It’s brand new so far too soon to know anything about out of warranty support. I also think it’s unreasonable to be quizzing a magazine that gets or loses the chance to test new bikes on the whim of the manufacturers.

I know it’s “not about the price” but honestly, how is that bike £14 grand, really?

There’s more than a few bikes out there that don’t have motors, or even suspension in some cases, that cost the same. It’s absolutely ridiculous, regardless of the economic climate, but as long as the bikes sell the manufacturers will keep on making them.

It is crazy pricey though. I have a 2020 Levo SL carbon expert. It now has XT four pots, a Fox 36, AXS shifting and dropper and all in, allowing for selling the bits I upgraded, was around 10k…

Yeah, it is a daft price but you aren’t supposed to buy it. It’s like an S Works Levo. Twice the price of a normal one just to act as a halo and attract attention.

Tell that to what must be dozens of folk I’ve seen riding sworks and plenty other 5 figure ebikes in the wild. Not just ‘1%ers’ buying them either.

Can’t wait for a year or two when all these pop up on the second hand market so I might have a chance of actually affording one 🙂

Crazy how many <1 year old e-bikes on pinkbike and other FB sites etc. With very few miles are popping up now (mind you might be out of the lockdown impulse purchase period so maybe not)

Trek have opened a store really near me and they offer transferable warranty to subsequent owners (as long as bike is registered) and I also have a spesh turbo store also local so for me I would only consider either of these two brands currently as for such an expensive purchase I would want to be able to take it back to a real shop.

Oh well, in that case the price still isn’t crazy then as they seem to fly off the shelf into normal punter’s hands.

Interest free credit,init

I think an article on warranties and future support is vital.

I’ll be on an e-bike at some point. I don’t need something for nothing or a warranty that covers crashes. But I’ll need to know I can keep the thing running. A fixed cost motor exchange program. Send in you motor and get back a used rebuild for £500 available for say 8 years from purchase

Without wishing to be rude, just because you can’t afford it or, rather, you have other things you’d rather spend your money on, doesn’t make a price crazy. The average price of a new car in the UK is £42k. I would never spend that on a car (well, I would, but I can’t afford it now and am unlikely every to be able to. Plus I can’t drive.), but I’m not gonna call anyone that would crazy.
Without wishing to be rude, just because you can’t afford it or, rather, you have other things you’d rather spend your money on, doesn’t make a price crazy. The average price of a new car in the UK is £42k. I would never spend that on a car (well, I would, but I can’t afford it now and am unlikely every to be able to), but I’m not gonna call anyone that would crazy.

+1 and have you seen how much ordinary folk spend on phones/contracts, watches, holiday to Disney etc etc

The prices are a bit crazy though,when you can buy the bottom of the range version of the bike, then buy all the other bits at full RRP, fit them to the bottom of the range version that you just bought and have the exact same bike for several grand less than buying the ‘official’ version
Without wishing to be rude, just because you can’t afford it or, rather, you have other things you’d rather spend your money on, doesn’t make a price crazy.

Agreed, however the price is crazy. Objectively speaking it is nuts.

The average price of a new car in the UK is £42k

Wow! That’s proper bonkers

that was the figure quoted on top gear last week, so as sure as that.

Is that from the same shop, or does that take some savvy shopping around, finding stock, navigating possible compatibility pitfalls etc. not everyone has the time for that. Hell, my last couple of bike builds took between 6 & 12 months just assembling the parts, two year wait for brakes not included so if I were as minted as some of you think I am, an extra few quid just to have everything I ultimately want, right from the off would be a price worth paying. But I’m not, so it isn’t. It may be to others.

Pricing it so not enough folk would buy it is crazy.

I don’t know… When you can get one of these for the same price… Seems crazy to me!

https://www.ducati.com/gb/en/bikes/monster/monster-sp

Or a Rolex with the Dominos pizza logo on it.

Different people have different priorities.

Very true Tom. That watch is hideous! Preowned too. Different strokes for different folks.

Is that from the same shop, or does that take some savvy shopping around
No need to seek bargains,just pay full retail pricing and you still save a truckload over buying the top end bike.

Each to their own though, they obviously do sell the top end versions or they wouldn’t make them.

I did edit to say just finding stock, which has been a challenge of the past few years. So a whole top end bike with top end parts (not just what you can get hold of) is more of a commodity.

Reading my post back again I can see that my wording comes across as being sarcastic when that wasn’t what I intended.

If indeed every other bike out there is a range topper then I’m wrong and so is anyone who says it’s crazy because people are buying them!

I appreciate that the whole battery capacity versus system weight is something of a vicious circle. Would adding one or two kilograms to the bike’s weight significantly impair the bike’s handling? Maybe it would. You do have to draw the line somewhere and it can’t have been an easy or quick decision made by the Trek team. I think personal preferences come into play a great deal here too. I am a bit of a Boost* fan. I can’t help it. I don’t have the discipline to stay in Eco or Trail modes. With a different rider on board, one who switches to Eco for flat road linking sections, and keeps it in Trail for pretty much everything else

I think a lot of people reviewing bikes like this or the Rise, coming from full power e-bikes, kind of miss the point. I’m guessing it probably gets a very similar range to an Orbea Rise if you don’t thrash it in Boost. That equates to about 1400m climbing (+/- 200m) which is a good chunk more than most people would ride on an unpowered bike on a full day out. For really big days add the 252wh range extender and you’re well over 2000m at which point you’re going to be exhausted anyway. (This might be where Trek *have* missed a trick – their range extender looks expensive and undersized at 150wh). So you only carry the extra weight when you plan to use it.

What these bikes are *less* suited for is shuttling up a fire road to ride downhill runs or chasing people on full-fat e-bikes. That’s when the temptation comes to whack it in boost to keep up and you rinse the battery. But I think they’re a lot more ‘bike like’ and a lot more fun to ride the rest of the time.

This might be where Trek *have* missed a trick – their range extender looks expensive and undersized at 150wh
its actually 160wh, but your point still stands. I suspect there will be a larger range extender in the works. The Trek rationale for this says that the range extender has been sized at 160wh because that is the max size that is allowed in aeroplanes, so you can take your bike abroad, leaving the main battery at home of course, and still get some assisted riding in.

a modular battery would be a great idea- 2, even 3 160wh batteries that could be connected in parallel, clipped together like lego, and separated for air flight

and separated for air flight

you’re only allowed a total of 160wh per person, so you’d need to get someone else in your party to carry any additional batteries

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2023 SL eMTB ROUNDUP

Trek fuel exe review.

Photos by Max Rhulen Video by Brian Niles / Treeline Cinematic

We’ve had the Trek Fuel EXe on long-term review status since it was first released a year ago. At the time when Trek hit the market with their SL, lightweight eMTB offering, complete with the brand new and nearly silent TQ HPR 50 drive unit, it had many mountain bikers excited to see this niche of eMTBs progressing. Since we first got this bike for an in-depth Dissected feature last year we installed a 160mm fork, passed it around and have been logging miles and smiles aboard it ever since. So, how does the long-term review of the Trek Fuel Exe stack up in comparison to our first ride impressions , and how does it stack up to an increasingly competitive category of eBikes? See below for all the pros and cons.

• 140mm Linkage Driven Single Pivot Suspension With ABP • 29” Wheels • TQ HPR50 Motor • 360Wh Battery • 2-position Flip Chip • HTA 64.8 (Low) • STA 76.8 (effective) • REACH 483 (Large, High)

Price: $6,499 – $13,999 Website: Trekbikes.com

2023 SL EMTB SHOOTOUT SERIES – The Trek Fuel EXe was one of the eight eMTBs we tested in our inaugural lightweight eBike group test. We’ve seen a rapid and impressive growth in this category and after fielding so many requests and comments in our well established, annual full-power EMTB SHOOTOUT series, it only seemed natural to give this category the attention it deserves.

This group review was made possible thanks to the amazing support of Schwalbe Tires and their brilliant new Tacky Chan tires, which we outfitted each and every bike with for a consistent test platform.

We’d also like to thank Ninja MTB and Glade Optics .

Our crew did plenty of testing around Central Oregon before heading down to one of our favorite places to ride, Klamath Falls, Oregon. Thanks for the hospitality Discover Klamath and the beautiful Running Y Resort .

The Fuel EXe is Trek’s answer to the ultimate lightweight all mountain eBike, with a 140mm rear end, capable trail geometry and the TQ HPR 50 drive system to provide natural assistance to the rider.

DRIVE UNIT AND ELECTRONICS | Trek’s Fuel EXe is one of two bikes in this Group Review which use the TQ HPR50 drive system. TQ’s motor is the lightest on test at 4.07lbs (1.85kg), which produces 50Nm Torque and up to 300W power. The motor is named after the Harmonic Pin Ring system which replaces the usual cogs in a motor to produce a very quiet operation. The frame hosts a removable 360Wh battery, and there’s an optional 160Wh Range Extender that can bring total battery capacity up to 520Wh. Something we highly recommend customers tack onto their purchase for added range.

TQ’s integrated 2-inch top tube display shows basic information like battery life and speed, and allows you to access the on-the-go adjustments. You can connect the TQ App on your phone via Bluetooth or a cycle computer via ANT+ to get more information and make more adjustments. The bar mounted remote lets you easily toggle between each power mode (ECO, MID or HIGH) or to activate walk mode.

FRAME AND FEATURES | Trek offers the EXe in both Alpha Platinum Aluminum or OCLV Carbon Fiber frame options, depending on the spec level selected. These share the same features throughout, but with a weight reduction on the carbon frame. There’s fully guided internal cable routing with clamped ports to minimize rattle, a SRAM Universal Derailleur Hanger, the Mino Link geometry adjusting flip chip, and a 34.9mm seat tube to increase dropper seatpost reliability. The front triangle has enough room to fit a large water bottle, and there’s a generous down tube protector which doubles as a quick release battery cover to facilitate easy removal. Inside the steerer tube Trek fits the Bontrager B.I.T.S system to offer easily accessible tools on the fly.

SUSPENSION | Trek continues to use their Linkage Driven Single Pivot suspension design, which features their Active Braking Pivot on the rear axle – a concentric pivot which allows for manipulation of the braking characteristics. Pedaling is tailored more on the side of traction than support with roughly 90% Anti Squat; there’s low braking influence with around 55% Anti Rise; and there’s a medium 16% progression to ensure riders will make use of all 140mm of travel.

GEOMETRY | The Trek Fuel EXe shares a lot of geometry with the analogue Fuel EX, which is a very well-rounded machine. Compared with other similar bikes on test, the Fuel EXe is slightly more aggressive, though the shorter rear end can let the front wheel wander on the steepest climb pitches.

BUILD SPECS | Trek offers a wide range of builds from the aforementioned Alloy-framed EXe 5 to the Exe 9.9 in both XTR or the XX1 spec tested, spanning a $6,499 to $13,999 price range. There are also T-Type builds on offer for those looking for the latest SRAM drivetrain. Our 9.9 XX1 build features an ultra-high spec build befitting such a price tag, with some tech accessories sprinkled in to add some extra flair. A RockShox Lyrik Ultimate and Super Deluxe Ultimate suspension package offers high levels of adjustability and are fitted with SRAM’s AirWiz tech to monitor pressures and ensure they’re always in the sweet spot before a ride. As the name suggests, SRAM provides an XX1 Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, though Trek opted to equip an e*thirteen e*spec Race Carbon crank; and there’s a SRAM Code RSC brakeset stopping on a pair of 200mm rotors. Rounding out the SRAM family spec is the RockShox Reverb AXS dropper post, with a 170mm drop unit fitted to our size large.

The cockpit is a slightly contentious integrated unit – the Bontrager RSL – with a 45mm effective stem length and 27.5mm rise. As standard the Fuel EXe’s Bontrager Line Pro 30 carbon wheels are wrapped in a Bontrager SE5 team issue tire set, but for this year’s SL eMTB Shootout we equipped all bikes with the super grippy Schwalbe Tacky Chan tires to provide a more balanced traction component to all our test bikes.

SETUP | Getting the Trek Fuel EXe feeling good proved to be a pretty easy task. Although we would have much preferred a traditional two-piece bar and stem as we swapped out the one-piece unit for our yearlong test, but alas, it seems the bike industry is forcing us to ride more and more of these one-piece units. I digress.

Trek’s suspension platform has a pretty wide range that will allow it to feel good enough but can really come alive if you spend that extra time experimenting with PSI and compression settings little by little.

ELECTRONICS & INTEGRATION | Trek Central is the brand’s app which is an impressively robust application and can be used alongside the TQ app to get all the info you want, modify power delivery and customize assist levels and support to your liking.

MOTOR POWER & RANGE | When the TQ HPR 50 came out it was an impressive drive unit in many ways, well it still is, however the Fazua Ride 60 and its 10Nm of extra power were appreciated on the hottest and longest days. The TQ unit sits nicely in the middle of the power range of our SL, lightweight eBikes, and is definitely on the quieter side, making only slightly more noise than the Fazua.

Our riders noticed the TQ was fast and peppy on the flatter trails and would result in tons of fun on lower gradient pedals, however in the factory configuration it would taper off a bit as the climbs got punchy and steeper. We slid the power assist up in the app and were willing to pay the price of increased battery consumption since we usually rode this bike with the range extender installed. If we didn’t have a range extender then we’d likely have a bit harder of a time finding the right spot for our particular riding style and assist preferences. From an efficiency perspective, the TQ is within a couple percent of other units, and means that variables like fitness, weight and terrain would have more to do with your mileage.

CLIMBING | We did not get along with the saddle on the Trek Fuel EXe, yet even still it was one of the most comfortable bikes to climb, so that’s saying something. The suspension platform is compliant and offers a lot of traction and suppleness for big days in the saddle. The geometry and climbing position was very neutral for our crew and it was just a good all-around climber.

DESCENDING | Our crew really liked the Trek Fuel EXe when it came time to descend. We liked it a lot more when we had the 160mm fork installed, but even with the OE-spec’d 150mm Lyrik, the bike was capable, fun and ready to shred. It was confident, poised enough at speed and able to be thrown and moved around with minimal effort. If you’re running the suspension on the softer side, it could ride a bit heavy – to be fair it was one of the heavier bikes in the test – but if you’re regularly riding smoother flow trails a few extra PSI in the fork and shock yields a much lighter and poppier feeling ride.

Much like the climbing performance of the Fuel EXe, the Trek is well-rounded, comfortable, predictable and a lot of fun to ride.

FINISH AND VALUE | This is where the Trek Fuel EXe starts to slip a bit. Trek hasn’t been known for having very durable or great paint, but they have been stepping it up and we’ll give ‘em that. Even so, when you look at premium priced bikes like Pivot, Forestal and Scott’s Lumen, you can see a certain pride of craftsmanship in the details from hardware to the little points on the frame. Heck, even the Giant Trance X has beautiful oil slick hardware to tie into the purple and bluish hues of the marbled paint theme.

We wouldn’t place the Trek very high on the value scale, and it doesn’t quite have the same allure as some of the flashier bikes in this shootout, but as riders who place value on performance over component spec, there is no denying the Trek Fuel EXe rides!

The Wolf’s Last Word

The Trek Fuel EXe is a very solid, crowd-pleasing SL category eBike. It’s incredibly versatile and for riders who want to shred a bit harder, a 160mm fork upgrade will make this bike even more fun. While we’d suggest spending a bit less on a bike that doesn’t come with the fancy (yet unnecessary) AirWiz technology, we think you can get into a pretty impressive and competitive Fuel EXe alloy for the mid $7,000s and a carbon XT model for the low $9,000s.

Overall, the Trek Fuel EXe is a bike that ranked consistently well across the board when it came to performance on the trail. It does everything pretty darn well and would be a great jack of all trades lightweight eBike for those looking to have a mid-power eMTB for trail shredding fun.

WHO’S IT FOR?

Price: $13,999 (9.9 XX1) Weight: 43.7lbs (large) Website: Trekbikes.com

SPECIFICATIONS

CHASSIS Frame: OCLV Carbon | 140mm Fork: RockShox Lyrik Ultimate | AirWiz | 150mm Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate | AirWiz | 205x60mm

DRIVE SYSTEM Motor: TQ HPR50 | 300W | 50Nm | 1.8kg Battery: TQ Internal | 360Wh | Integrated | 1.83kg Display: TQ HPR Remote: TQ System LED

COCKPIT Brakes: SRAM Code RSC | 200F/R rotors Handlebar/Stem: Bontrager RSL Integrated Carbon | 27.5mm Rise | 800 W Seatpost: Bontrager Line Elite Dropper | 200mm Saddle: Bontrager Arvada Pro, Carbon rails

WHEELS Wheels: Bontrager Line Pro 30 | OCLV Mountain Carbon Front Tire: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue | 29×2.50″ Rear Tire: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue | 29×2.50″

DRIVETRAIN Cassette: SRAM Eagle XG-1299 | 10-52T Crankset: E*thirteen E*spec Race Carbon | 34T | 165mm Shifter: SRAM Eagle AXS | 12spd Derailleur: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS | 12spd

Well-rounded and versatile Does everything Fun Capable

We don’t, not the best value one-piece bar stem, leave a comment | win free stuff.

Want to win some free schwag? Leave a comment and vote up the most thoughtful comments and each month we’ll pick a winner. The person with the smartest and most helpful replies will earn some sweet new gear. Join the Pack and get the latest news and read the latest reviews on the top  mountain  and  electric mountain bikes .

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trek fuel exe

Trek’s Fuel EXe Is the Best e-Mountain Bike You Can Buy Right Now

Light, discrete, and quiet with a great chassis, the new EXe proves that more doesn’t make e-bikes better.

TQ HPR50 Motor

Motor noise, battery and range, display, remote, and apps, frame details, models and prices.

The Takeaway: Motor or no motor, the Fuel EXe is one of the best mountain bikes on the market right now.

  • All new EX carbon frame with 140mm rear travel and 150mm fork
  • Small and light (1850 grams) TQ HPR50 with maximum 50Nm torque
  • 360Wh in-frame battery. Optional piggyback 160Wh range extender
  • 2-5 hour claimed ride range from in-frame battery
  • Six models priced $6,500 to $14,000

Weight: 40.9 lbs. (medium, 9.9 XX1 AXS)

Price: $14,000 (9.9 XX1 AXS)

trek fuel exe

Trek kicks off a big week of mountain bike launches here at Bicycling with the introduction of their latest e-mountain bike: The Fuel EXe. While the usual e-bike story is about more power, battery, and range, the EXe falls into the intriguing e-light category where the story is less.

The EXe is lighter, a lot lighter—10 or so pounds lighter—than a full-power e-bike because it uses a less powerful motor requiring a smaller battery. That makes it appealing to riders who want an e-bike but also want the feel and handling of an unpowered e-bike. It should also interest lighter and less powerful riders put off by riding a 50-pound eMTB. As I found out, being less powerful doesn’t mean less fun. The EXe proves that the old Less Is More axiom works for e-bikes too.

The Fuel EXe arrives in shops worldwide, in limited numbers, today.

Ride Impressions

Most of the e-bikes I ride are motorized versions of a brand’s existing unpowered frame platform, which there’s a better-than-good chance I’ve already ridden. However, with this new Fuel EXe, Trek flipped the script on me because the powered version came first.

trek fuel ex e

My test bike was the most expensive model: The $14,000 9.9 XX1 AXS in Baja Yellow. The parts were, as you would hope for a bike this expensive, flawless. I did notice the RockShox Reverb AXS dropper on this post seemed smoother and less sticky than other examples of this post I’ve tried, perhaps due to some running changes on the assembly line. The Bontrager SE5 Team Issue tires are the best Bontrager trail tires I’ve ever ridden, and I feel like the company has a rubber compound that lets them compete with the best on the market. Also impressive were the 2023 RockShox parts which are a step forward in smoothness for the brand, and operate silently.

One thing not present on my bike was Trek’s AirWiz suspension pressure sensors on the fork and shock, or the Quarq TyreWiz tire pressure sensors on the wheels. These are a stock feature on the model I tested, but Trek’s PR team decided to remove them from my review bike after the issues I had with the sensors on the Rail test bike in October . Riders who order the new EXe through Trek’s Project One customization program have the option to remove the sensors.

trek fuel ex e

While much of this bike is new to me, the Fuel EXe is such a harmonious package that I got comfortable with it very quickly, and it wasn’t much longer before I was in love with this bike. In fact, I’m going to declare that this is one of the best mountain bikes—powered or unpowered—I’ve recently ridden. I can’t wait until the unpowered version of this frame lands because I think it will kick ass.

Everything makes this bike good, but I’ll start with the frame. The chassis has a modern fit and balanced handling that lets the rider climb comfortably and let it run on the descents, yet it’s still agreeable on mid-speed and flatter trails. There’s nothing particularly unique or different about the EXe’s geometry numbers, which I think is the point: It finds an equilibrium that works well on many kinds of climbs and flavors of descent without neglecting that some trails are flatter. If anything, it’s snappier and livelier—things I don’t think I’ve ever said about an e-mountain bike—than the average 140/150mm bike, and enough that I legitimately forgot that I was on an e-bike at times.

trek fuel ex e

I sometimes forget I was on an e-bike because the motor is so quiet and well-mannered. I couldn’t hear it over my breathing on climbs, and it’s so smooth that there are almost no vibrations or buzzing to feel in the frame. Plus, it is entirely free of clunking and lash.

It’s the most natural feeling motor I’ve yet ridden, by which I mean it doles out the power in an approximately human way. It is also so quick that there’s almost no lag between when you start and stop pedaling; the motor power flows in and out. It legitimately feels like you’re just having a really great day when you pedal this bike. I felt less surging and pushing from this motor, even in the highest assist mode, than I’ve experienced from any other e-bike motor system.

The EXe’s motor feels exceptionally well-tuned, and the experience is refined, eclipsing even Specialized’s excellent motors. Some of this smoothness likely results from the TQ’s lower torque. By keeping the system quiet, the bike tricks the brain a bit—quieter is perceived as smoother. But riding the EX- was such a pleasant experience that I never missed the extra boost of a “full power” e-bike.

trek fuel ex e

I feel like this e-lite mountain bike might provide a superior experience for many riders, even committed e-bike riders. Yeah, it’s not going to hurl you up the climbs the way a full-power e-bike will. Yes, I did wish for more range—if only because riding the EXe is so damn fun—but there’s enough power and range here to offer some substantial assist, yet the bike remains agile and doesn’t punish the upper body on the descents. It is an e-bike experience that doesn’t overwhelm the mountain bike experience. The experience of transitioning from a mountain bike to a full-power e-bike is pretty extreme and can be jarring.

Full-power e-bikes are a lot: A lot of power and a lot of weight. Many riders adapt and are completely happy with their full-power e-bikes. But if you’ve tried a full-power e-bike and thought it was a bit much, the EXe will be a revelation.

Based on Strava, even with the EXe’s assist, I was still slower on the climbs and descents than my town’s fastest pro riders. I wasn’t even as fast as my best unassisted times from when I was in my best riding shape. But I could ride quicker and with less effort than I can (at my current weight and fitness) compared to an unassisted bike. It lessened—but did not eliminate—the pain and significantly increased the fun in a quiet, sleek, and easy-to-ride package. Which, to me, are the hallmark of an extraordinary bike.

trek fuel ex e

For the new EXe motor, Trek turned to a new supplier: TQ Group. Like Bosch, Brose, and Mahale, TQ’s e-bike division is a small part of a large and diverse company with extensive knowledge in electronics. Though they may not have the recognition of its competitors, this isn’t TQ’s first foray into e-bike motors: The Flyon motor used for some Haibike models was a TQ product. But while the Flyon was noteworthy for its massive 120Nm of torque, the HPR50 maxes out at 50Nm (300 watts maximum assist), putting the Fuel EXe into the growing e-light category of mountain bikes. Other e-light trail bikes include Specialized’s Levo SL and Orbea’s Rise.

With nearly half the maximum torque, these e-light bikes don’t have the sheer thrust of a full-power e-MTB. But less powerful motors are smaller and lighter, and they draw less juice so that the bikes can use smaller and lighter batteries. And that’s why this EXe is easily 10 pounds lighter than a comparable full-power e-bike. For example, the full-power Trek Rail I reviewed last October weighed 51.3lb. This EXe with a similar build weighs 40.9 pounds.

The HPR50 is a light (1830 grams) and small e-bike motor because of its architecture. The “harmonic pin ring” system allows a concentric profile without belts and with fewer gears, packaging the entire unit into a shell that looks more like an oversized standard bottom bracket than the typical e-bike motor. Rather than explaining the design, the hypnotic animation provided by TQ below illustrates it nicely.

preview for Trek Fuel EXe TQ Motor Exploded View

One more stat I want to highlight is TQ’s claimed “135mm Q-Factor.” While this is true, it’s the Q-factor of the motor without cranks which, last I checked, is hard to pedal. With my test bike’s e*thirteen e*spec Race Carbon cranks installed, I measured an approximate 195mm Q-Factor, which is quite a bit wider than a Shimano EP8 motor’s 177mm.

According to Trek’s launch materials, they spent a lot of time analyzing and quantifying e-bike motor noise. And while I don’t consider any of the current mid-drive e-bike motors loud, they all make noticeable—and not particularly pleasant—noise. Trek claims that when measured in an anechoic chamber, their motor’s tonality across a range of cadence speeds is four to five times lower than other e-bikes, registering as “barely perceivable.”

After many hours of riding the EXe, I agree that barely perceivable is an apt way to describe the motor’s noise. It’s so quiet that it barely registers above (and most of the time is masked by) tire noise and breathing. And not only is it hushed, but the noise you can hear is a much lower pitch—almost like a cat’s happy purr—than the high-pitched whine of most e-bike motors.

So quiet is the HPR50 motor that I could ride the EXe in a group without others knowing I was on an e-bike. Unless they got a good look at the bike from the non-drive side or happened to see the discrete handlebar remote (which I tried to cover with my hand as much as possible), they assumed it to be a non-assist bike. To make it even stealthier, I covered the top tube display with electrical tape to hide it, covered the top tube logo with stickers, and rode trails that are closed to e-bikes. Of course, I can’t suggest you do the same, but no one I rode by gave me or the bike a second look.

The EXe has a 360 Wh internal battery, which is enough for “two to five hours” of riding, according to Trek. While frustratingly vague, it’s accurate as many factors influence battery range. Riding in the “mid” assist mode, I did a 25-mile ride with almost 2500 feet of climbing. The ride took two hours and 40 minutes and finished with under 30 percent battery remaining, so I think the two-to-five hour estimate is accurate.

If you want more range (or less range anxiety), the EXe offers a couple of options. One is a 160Wh piggyback battery ($660, 900 gram claimed weight) that fits into the bottle cage. You’ll lose the ability to put a water bottle on the bike, but it provides 40 percent more range. One clever thing about this range extender is you can charge both it and the bike’s in-frame battery through a charge port in the extender. The other option is to buy a second in-frame battery ($750). You can easily remove the in-frame battery from the frame, so hot swaps on the trail are possible if you’re willing to carry a spare 1835g battery in your pack.

Claimed charge time for the 360Wh battery is a relatively short two hours, while the 160Wh piggyback charges in an hour.

trek fuel ex e

The EXe has a two-inch OLED flush-mounted in the top tube with four data lines and the system’s on/off switch. A remaining charge graphic and assist mode indicator always show, and you can scroll through four data screens. The most helpful are the ones that display the remaining battery charge as a percentage and estimated ride time remaining, and remaining range in miles and estimated ride time remaining. The other data screens show rider and bike power and speed. In addition, the TQ system broadcasts information on an ANT+ channel, so you can also see information on compatible GPS cycling computers.

The TQ handlebar remote is very discrete. Use it to select one of three assist modes (Eco, Mid, High), to shut off all assistance, or activate walk mode.

Riders may access further information and settings through the new Trek Central app for iOS and Android. The app can customize all three assist modes. However, assist-system firmware updates must be done by a Trek dealer.

trek fuel exe

The Central app also offers ride tracking/recording (with automatic export to Strava and Komoot) and navigation with battery charge remaining at the end of the trip. It also has a range cloud that shows how far you can ride if you want to make a round trip and how far you can ride one way with a full charge.

The Central app also provides suspension and tire pressure setup information based on rider weight and recommended suspension damping settings. If your bike has Trek’s TireWiz or AirWiz electronic pressure sensors, the app also connects to those devices.

trek fuel ex e

The EXe is the debut of Trek’s all-new carbon frame platform. Though the e-bike version is the first to launch, I’d bet there’s an unassisted version of this same frame coming soon. It is a mid-travel trail frame with 140mm of rear travel and complete models equipped with 150mm forks (it can take up to a 160mm fork). In addition, Trek seems to be heading in a new styling direction with the EXe, as the frame shapes and graphics seem crisper yet more subtle than previous mountain bikes.

The rear suspension is Trek’s familiar ABP (Active Braking Pivot) design. ABP is a single pivot system with a floating brake arm, allowing the nerds to fine-tune the bike’s anti-squat (pedaling) and anti-rise (braking) characteristics more than they could by using a more traditional single-pivot design. Trek says the kinematics work with either air or coil shocks and states that all coil shocks from Fox and RockShox are compatible with the EXe.

All frame sizes fit a 20-ounce water bottle inside the front triangle, and there’s a cargo mount under the top tube, too. Hoses and housing run internally (of course), but this frame does not use Trek’s Knock Block system to limit bar rotation. It got sacrificed to make room for the in-frame display.

trek fuel exe

The EXe’s geometry is pretty average for a modern 140/150mm travel trail bike. The highlights are two geometry positions (via a chip in the rocker link yielding a 64.7- or 65.2-degree head angle/76.7- or 77.2-degree effective seat tube angle) and chainstays that measure about 440mm.

While complete bikes come with 29-inch wheels, Trek says the bike is compatible with a 27.5” rear wheel.

Trek recommends using the high geometry position with the smaller-sized wheel fitted. However, it cautions that “the smaller wheel circumference will affect the accuracy of the speed reading and cannot be adjusted.”

Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

Fuel EXe 9.5

There are six EXe models—starting with the $6,500 Fuel EXe 9.5 and topping out with the $14,000 EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS. All use the same carbon frame, TQ motor, and 360Wh battery, but the rest of the build changes accordingly to price. Trek provided complete bike weights for the line, which I’ve pasted below, and you’ll also find build highlights. Full component package details are available on Trek’s website.

trek fuel exe

Notably, the most expensive EXe is not the lightest bike in the lineup. The $13,000 Shimano XTR build and the $8,700 and $9,200 Shimano XT bikes are lighter weight than the range-topping $14,000 SRAM XX1 AXS-equipped model. Also, the least expensive 9.5 model (remember: same frame, motor, and battery for all models) costs $7,500 less than the 9.9 XX1 AXS build but only weighs 3.3(ish) pounds heavier. To put it another way, the 9.5 is 53.6 percent cheaper than the 9.9 XX1, yet only eight percent heavier.

trek fuel exe

Personally, the best build in the line is the XT model. It’s under 40 pounds (claimed), has the carbon rims, comes with tough and sticky SE tires, and has the fancy one-piece carbon bar/stem of the most expensive builds. It has all of this while carrying a sub-five figure price tag.

Lastly, on the SRAM AXS -equipped bikes (like my review sample), the rear derailleur gets power from the bike’s battery via an “extension cord” pack. This pack clips on in place of the standard AXS battery and connects to the bike’s wiring harness. If you completely drain the e-bike battery, there is still enough juice left for about 200 shifts. Riders can bring along a spare AXS battery as an extra precaution.

trek fuel ex e

Model | Weight in Pounds | Price

Fuel EXe 9.5 | 43.94 | $6,500

Fuel EXe 9.7 | 41.99 | $7,600

Fuel EXe 9.7 P1 Now* | 41.99 | $8,100

Fuel EXe 9.8 XT | 39.9 | $8,700

Fuel EXe 9.8 XT P1 Now* | 39.9 | $9,200

Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS | 40.06 | $11,000

Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR | 38.51 | $13,000

Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS | 40.67 | $14,000

* “P1 Now” models have a “premium” finish and are painted and assembled at Trek’s headquarters in Waterloo, Wisconsin. The weight and build kit are the same as standard models.

Headshot of Matt Phillips

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

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Trek FUEL EXE 2023 Service Manual

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  • FUEL EXE 2023
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Trek FUEL EXE 2023 Service Manual

  • page of 23 Go / 23

Table of Contents

  • Derailleur Hanger
  • Rocker Pivot and Seatstay
  • Main Pivot and Chainstay
  • Brake, Derailleur, and Dropper Post Routing
  • Guards and Water Bottle Mounts
  • Remote, Display, and Smart Box
  • Wiring Harness and Cable Tray Organizer
  • Drive Unit and
  • Adjust the Compensation Screws
  • Re-Installing the Cranks
  • Speed Sensor
  • Remove and Install the Battery
  • Ride the Bike Without the Battery
  • Connect Lights to the TQ Smart Box
  • Specifications

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Quick Links

  • 1 Remote, Display, and Smart Box
  • 2 Drive Unit and
  • 3 Re-Installing the Cranks
  • 5 Remove and Install the Battery
  • Download this manual

Related Manuals for Trek FUEL EXE 2023

Bicycle Trek TOP FUEL 2022 Service Manual Supplement

Summary of Contents for Trek FUEL EXE 2023

  • Page 1 2023 FUEL EXE SERVICE MANUAL Rev 3 January 2023...

Page 2: Table Of Contents

Page 3: safety, page 4: derailleur hanger.

  • Page 5 2023 Fuel EXe Active Braking Pivot (ABP) 20x30 20x30 Tools Lever — W573860 • Bearing press Thru axle — W583469 • Cassette lockring tool • Grease Non-driveside ABP bolt — • Threadlocker W5251141 Retaining ring — W5251279 — W5272776 Bearings — W5256340 ABP Non-driveside guide nut —...

Page 6: Rocker Pivot And Seatstay

Page 7: main pivot and chainstay, page 8: rear shock.

  • Page 9 2023 Fuel EXe Adjust the geometry Flip the Mino link to change the bike’s geometry to fit your riding style or the terrain. Steeper head tube angle Slacker head tube angle Mino link in the high position Mino link in the low position •...

Page 10: Brake, Derailleur, And Dropper Post Routing

Page 11: guards and water bottle mounts.

  • Page 12 2023 Fuel EXe Charge port cover Tip: Not sure if you have a T8 Torx wrench? Before you buy a new one check your SRAM bleed kit to see if one is included with the kit. 0.8Nm Bolts — 5305632 Replacement tip —...

Page 13: Remote, Display, And Smart Box

Page 14: wiring harness and cable tray organizer, page 15: drive unit and, page 16: adjust the compensation screws, page 17: re-installing the cranks, page 18: speed sensor, page 19: battery, page 20: remove and install the battery, page 21: ride the bike without the battery, page 22: connect lights to the tq smart box, page 23: specifications, rename the bookmark, delete bookmark, delete from my manuals, upload manual.

Review: Trek Fuel EXe eMTB smashes rough trails & climbs like (you’re) a beast

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

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The Trek Fuel EXe is a bit of an outlier in the current e-MTB market. Most e-mountain bikes fall into one of two categories: High-powered, long-travel beasts, or lightweight, short-travel models with lower-power systems.

The Fuel EXe sits in the middle, with 150/140mm travel and generous, adjustable trail geometry, and the new TQ HPR50 motor that’s ultra-quiet with moderate output. And it works, delivering a balanced, capable bike and an extremely fun ride experience.

If you’re looking for an eMTB that rides like a trail bike and helps you conquer bigger trails and longer days, here’s everything you need to know about the Trek Fuel EXe…

The Quick Overview

trek fuel exe ride without battery

The Trek Fuel EXe translates their popular Fuel EX trail bike line into an electric-assist model that “empowers you to do more, without interrupting the way you experience nature.” That was the goal, and they nailed it.

It starts with a full OCLV carbon frame with fully internal routing and integrated TQ HPR50 drive system. The tiny motor sits where the BB is and still allows short 440mm chainstays. The 360Wh battery sits in the downtube and the power button/system monitor is flush in the top tube.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

A simple two-button remote is barely visible on the bars. It cycles through the modes, initiates Walk Mode, and a long press of the lower button will turn off all assist. Meaning, default is Eco mode, you have to hold the lower button for about 3 seconds to turn assist off…I wish it was just a quick press as for the other modes.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

The bike has 29er wheels front and rear, 140mm rear travel paired to 150mm forks, a 65º head angle, and 77º effective seat angle (in Low position; their Mino link flip-chip lets you tweak the geo by 0.5º steeper in High).

Size-specific dropper posts range from 120mm to 170mm in travel depending on frame size. All sizes get 165mm cranks.

Check our launch coverage for the full tech story on this bike.

How’s the TQ motor?

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

It’s brilliant. Until I thought to pay attention to it, I heard nothing.

And when I was paying attention, it sounds like a light, barely perceptible whistling of the wind.

The sound of my friend’s regular eMTB riding 20 feet behind me drowned out any noise from this bike.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

Basically, noise is no issue here, not even at maximum power. You truly do hear nature, not the bike.

This is because the motor has no belts or gears. Trek has a great breakaway view of it , and we covered the tech in depth if you’d like to dig deeper.

The TL;DR is this: It’s ultra quiet, pumps out smooth power delivery, and 50Nm of torque is plenty to help you along the trail and up the hills. It’s also ultra-light, weighing 2.5+ pounds less than competitors’ larger 85-90Nm motors. As such, it uses a smaller, lighter battery without giving up range or ride time.

What about battery life?

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

Trek claims 2-5 hours of ride time per charge. With judicious use of Eco mode, I routinely got more than 3 hours of riding on a single charge. That means mixed use of mostly in Eco but using Trail mode on most climbs and Turbo on the steepest climbs.

Fortunately, Eco felt just right when pedaling along. Trail was fun, and a bit faster, but mostly not necessary for keeping up with others.

That said, when riding with others on eMTBs with more powerful systems, it was clear that they were faster. But on the trail, in the woods, things evened out enough that we all just rode together perfectly fine. I never felt under-gunned unless we were nailing it up a smooth fire road.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

A 160Wh Range Extender is available for $599 and adds 44% more capacity. It’ll take up the single bottle cage on the bike, but it’s worth it for big days when range anxiety is a real thing. Personally, I’d add it to the cart.

One note: Fresh out of the box, TQ says the system needs a few full charge and discharge cycles to accurately estimate range and battery life.

My first ride’s assistance abruptly ended with 7% battery showing on the display. My second ride ended at 3%.

Subsequent rides are getting closer to 0%, but even at 0% showing, there’s a small reserve left to power the electronics. Which is crucial because the SRAM AXS rear derailleur is plugged into and powered by the bike…not its own battery.

TQ e-bike display

Starting with 1%, I still managed to get 2.5+ hours of riding out of it before it finally, fully shut down and left me with a single speed.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

Yes, you can borrow the battery from the Reverb AXS and use that, but then the wire and plug leading to the derailleur are left dangling about… and likely to get ripped off or sucked up into the chain.

Fortunately, the system also charges quickly, getting to about 80% in about 90 minutes, and fully charged in about 2.5 hours.

It’s worth noting that when TQ’s system drops below 10% charge, it limits output to Eco mode regardless of the setting you choose. This helps ensure you maximize your range.

Why not just get a high-powered eMTB?

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

I’ve been asked, “yeah, but if you’re paying for an eMTB, why not just get a high-powered e-MTB?”

That’s a good question. I have a couple of good answers.

First, this bike is a lot lighter, at least 10lbs lighter. It’s entirely pedal-able even without assist, something I unwittingly proved when I showed up at the trailhead and realized I hadn’t charged it.

Three hours later, I was spent, but had a great time riding. Granted, this was on flowing trails without any massive, long climbs, but I still had hundreds of little punchy climbs and sprints to get up and down the trail.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

Second, full power feels about like half power compared to a top-level Bosch- or Shimano-equipped bike. But that’s OK. The Fuel EXe’s output feels more natural, so if you’re looking for an e-bike that rides like a regular bike, this is it. It just lets you get a little further a little faster. Big days can be bigger. Little days can be a little faster.

On loose, technical, or entirely too steep climbs, I actually preferred the lower output of the Fuel EX-e. It was more than enough to help me up (I still had to work), but it wasn’t spinning out or lurching out of control where more powerful bikes were. It makes really steep, sketchy climbs more manageable.

But if you want more power, check out the Trek Rail . If you want no power, we reviewed the non-electric version of this 2023 Trek Fuel EX with this same spec, too.

How much does the Trek Fuel EXe weigh?

trek fuel EXe eMTB actual weights on a hanging scale

I tested the top of the line Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS in size XL. It weighed in at 41lb 11oz (18.76kg) without pedals…and that’s with an impressive (and expensive) mix of both lightweight and tech-laden parts.

Trek says the entire TQ HPR50 system adds just 3.9kg (8lb 10oz). The EXe is only about 10lbs more than the nearly identical-looking standard Fuel EX, so they didn’t add much beyond the TQ system to make it an e-bike.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

The frame feels stiff and robust. The tires are big and meaty.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

The bike looks tough, with square-ish tube profiles and wide cross sections. All of that adds up to an extremely laterally stiff frame.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

The one-piece RSL handlebar stem and Line Pro 30 carbon wheels save weight, but as a percentage of total bike weight, they’re not making the same impact they would on an analog bike. And, at 820mm wide (on all frame sizes!) it’s really wide…if it were mine, I’d cut it down (they include marks measured to 740mm).

I’d also probably switch the grips to something with a bit more vibration damping. If you choose a model with a standard handlebar and stem, I’d recommend something like the OneUp or Race Face trail handlebars with added compliance.

Too much tech?

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

Other spec highlights on this particular trim level include a complete SRAM AirWiz and TireWiz system, offering remote tire pressure and fork & shock pressure monitoring.

The Trek App shows recommended tire, fork, and shock pressures based on your riding weight, along with starter rebound settings. With AirWiz/TireWiz installed, their app will also show current actual pressures, too.

Check it there, or just look for the blinking lights on the bike to be green, and you’re good to go. Red lights mean something’s out of the recommended range.

trek ebike app setup screens for fuel exe eMTB

I found that the recommended tire pressure settings were a tad high. I ended up at 22psi front and rear with no issues (I’m about 192-195lbs fully kitted out, ready to ride).

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

The Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 29×2.5 tires are excellent, I run them on some of my other bikes, too. Like most aggressive trail tires, and particularly those spec’d on e-bikes, the casings are stiffer and can take a lot of abuse, so lower pressures help improve ride feel. I may still go a bit lower.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

At 22psi, they’ll mold to the ground and take a hit, but I still haven’t felt a rim strike despite some obvious deformation over roots and rocks.

trek ebike app setup screens for fuel exe eMTB

The rear shock’s air pressure recommendation was spot on, giving me full travel on the big days.

The fork, however, was too high. Trek recommended 102psi, but even at 87psi I was only getting ~85% travel. I’m still tinkering here, down to 84psi, but the takeaway is that you don’t have to stick to the recommended settings.

And, once you find what you like, you can use the Trek (or SRAM’s AXS) app to manually set your preferences. If the bike has the Air/TireWiz devices, those will be updated to blink red/green accordingly, too.

closeup frame and component details on trek fuel EXe e-mountain bike

Personally, I think the Wiz devices are clever, but overkill, and they definitely add cost. I like that I can set my preferences and use the Trek app to save them (because I will definitely forget), but I could take or leave the extra electronics on the bike…and, if I were shopping, would probably opt not to pay for that tech here.

How does the Trek Fuel EX-e ride?

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

In short? It rides like an aggressive trail bike. A really good aggressive trail bike.

Trek’s ABP suspension is efficient and effective. There’s a lockout switch on the rear shock, but in most instances it’s not needed. I only used it on long fire road stretches or when riding the road to the trails. Once on the dirt, it stays open with no issues on sprints, standing climbing, or just powering along.

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

On the descents, I could smash through extended rock and root sections, prevalent on the trails at Carven’s Cove near Roanoke.

While I’m still fiddling with the fork’s air pressure to improve small bump and low speed comfort, the Lyrik Ultimate on this bike absolutely demolished high speed hits.

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

Combined with the stiff frame and capable tires, the Fuel EXe inspires a lot of confidence at speed over gnarly terrain.

trek fuel exe ride without battery

The suspension stays active under power, which is good because I (like most eMTB riders, according to research) tend to stay seated more often on e-mountain bikes. The motorized assist helps a rider power through rough stuff in theory, and a good suspension platform like this makes it happen in reality.

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

The Fuel EXe hammers through the rough stuff when standing, too, maintaining traction.

Situations like these, where a little bounce and skip is inevitable is another argument in favor of moderate power output from the motor. Never once did I spin out, and never did I really wish for more power. It’s a good balance.

The bike’s geometry is perfectly balanced, too. I could easily maintain rear traction while keeping the front wheel firmly on the ground, even on some monstrous 18%+ loose, rutted fire road climbs.

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

Even the bike’s weight feels well-balanced, in terms of handling. Jumps feel natural…

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

…as do drop-ins…

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

…and drop offs.

2023 trek fuel EXe eMTB review riding action

But there’s a definite heft to getting the front wheel up and over logs or rocks.

The result was that I’d just smash into stuff that I would usually pop up and over on a regular bike. Up to a point, of course … there are some things you simply have to lift the wheel up and over, so just know that it takes more effort.

Which means riding this bike, despite its relative light weight, is more of a full-body workout, as is any eMTB. And I feel like I pedaled more consistently and turned more total revolutions, many times also riding a bit longer than I otherwise would have.

The point is, at the end of each ride, I was all grins and knew quite well that I’d earned them. Well done, Trek.

TrekBikes.com

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Tyler Benedict is the Founder of Bikerumor.com . He has been writing about the latest bikes, components, and cycling technology for almost two decades. Prior to that, Tyler launched and built multiple sports nutrition brands and consumer goods companies, mostly as an excuse to travel to killer riding locations throughout North America.

Based in North Carolina, Tyler loves family adventure travel and is always on the lookout for the next shiny new part to make his bikes faster and lighter.

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Bobiov

Great review!!

Jim Bertolina

Thank you for the thorough review! Did you happen to test it out on jumps? I’m hoping that the reduced weight makes it feel more natural off of jumps compared to the heavier e-bikes but haven’t seen that discussed yet.

Gary Miller

Caution: If you are like me, and ride small frame bikes, right now they are very difficult to come by. I recently ordered the Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 and it has an early arrival date of January. Other companies are into spring.

Doc Sarvis

Hoping to pick up my 9.7 in early November. Excellent review.

Jeff

Great review. You rode an XL but never mentioned your height. Did it feel long? I’m 6’1 190 and debating L vs XL

JBikes

What the long-term plan from TQ on motor footprint/mounting. If the motor goes in 5-10 years, is the bike basically trash?

Yer dad

It’s still just a Trek. I guess we thank Giant for the fine work?

Also, TQ was having a heckuva time keeping up with demand in Europe, so time will tell how successful this bike will be service-wise.

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Review: Trek's 2023 Fuel EX-e Is Light & Nearly Completely Silent

Trek Fuel EX-e 9.9 XX1 AXS Photo Dave Smith

Cool Features

Trek releases the Fuel EXe, a lightweight, yet feature-packed e-MTB

Trek teased it as the 'dawn of a new era' and the new Fuel EXe is certainly packed with tech

Trek Fuel EXe

Trek has added a brand new e-MTB, the Fuel EXe. Based on Trek's lightweight trail bike platform, the new e-MTB platform is designed to give a more natural e-MTB riding experience than Trek's existing high-powered, bike battery Rail e-MTB.

Trek teased us with a new e-MTB claiming it to be 'dawn of a new era' and the new Fuel EXe will take its position as one of the  best electric mountain bike in Trek's range. Trek has now released the full details of the new bike so let's dig into the details.

While the Fuel EXe shares the same name as the trail human-powered Fuel EX, Trek says that the new bike has been built from the ground up.

The frame is built from Trek's OCLV Mountain Carbon with an alloy rocker link. Trek has stuck with its proven ABP (Active Braking Pivot) suspension system and there is a Mino link, which is a flip-chip that can be flipped to make small geometry adjustments. 

Travel has been increased to 150mm front and 140mm rear and the bike rolls on 29in wheels front and rear, rather than a mullet setup which has gained popularity of late.

In terms of geometry, a fairly neutral 65-degree head angle is paired with a 485mm (large) reach and a 77-degree seat tube which should hit the sweet spot for general trail riding.

Rather than spec one of the more commonly seen motors, Trek has gone for a TQ HPR50 transmission. While the brand from Germany might not have much of a history in the mountain bike market, TQ has built motors for moon rovers and robots performing surgery so they have plenty of experience. TQ's Harmonic Ping Ring motor is said to be lighter, quieter, and smaller than other motors on the market.

This bike is designed to enhance the rider's abilities rather than overpower them, the TQ motor only puts out 50Nm of torque. Trek reckons that's enough power to assist riders up climbs without the ride feeling too unnatural.

Small motors don't require as much power either and Trek reckons you can get between two to five hours of battery life from the 360Wh battery – obviously this very much depends on the conditions and terrain. The battery weighs 1,835g and is bolted into the downtube although Trek says it is easily removed by sliding it out without needing to unbolt the motor. Battery life can be boosted with a 160Wh range extender that mounts on the inside of the downtube in the water bottle cage. 

The concentric motor design means the motor can be easily tucked away into the bottom of the frame and when combined with the slim downtube, it's hard to tell that the Fuel EXe is in fact an e-MTB.

That's helped further by integrating the display screen and buttons too. Trek has mounted a screen in the top tube, the screens aren't as detailed as the Forestal e-MTBs we saw at Core bike , and feature four display screens showing motor/battery, speed, or rider power data.

A slimline handlebar mount with two rocker buttons is neatly positioned next to the grip allowing easy on-the-fly toggling between modes. There is a walk mode as well to help push the bike up steep inclines.

Not only has Trek tried to lower the weight of the Fuel EXe to try to keep the riding experience as close to a standard bike but Trek has also thought about the audio experience. Claiming that the Fuel EXe has a perceived volume up to five times as quiet as a standard e-MTB, although Trek doesn't specify which motors they tested.

Trek has a tuning app that pairs which the motor (Bluetooth and ANT+) and gives users the options to customize the motor settings, monitor battery range, provide setup info, and navigation. The app also pairs with third-party apps too as well as GPS units.

If you plump for this 9.9 model, you also get TyreWiz and AirWiz which monitors tire, fork & shock pressure. Providing on the fly tire pressure readings as well as a green light that allows you to quickly see your suspension is set up properly.

Trek Fuel EXe availability, range, and specs

Trek has six different build options for the Fuel EXe, plus the fancy custom Project One options on certain models (9.7, 9.8 XT, and 9.9 XX1 AXS).

They are pricey though, with the Trek Fuel EXe starting at $6,499.99 / £5,750 and topping out at a whopping $13,999.99 / £13,250.

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS

  • Suspension: RockShox Lyrik Ultimate (150mm) / RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate (140mm)
  • Groupset: SRAM XX1 AXS drivetrain, 12sp
  • Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Race carbon, 34T, 165mm length
  • Brakes: SRAM Code RSC brakes
  • Wheelset: Bontrager Line Pro 30 carbon wheels
  • Tires: Bontrager SE5 29x2.5in tires
  • Handlebar: Bontrager RSL - piece carbon handlebar/stem
  • Stem: Bontrager RSL
  • Seatpost: RockShox Reverb AXS dropper, 170mm
  • Saddle: Bontrager Arvada
  • Weight: 18.45kg
  • Price: $13,999.99 / £13,250

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR

  • Groupset: Shimano XTR M9100, 12 speed
  • Brakes: Shimano XTR M9120 4-piston
  • Seatpost: Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 200mm
  • Saddle: Bontrager Arvada Pro
  • Weight: 17.47kg
  • Price: $12,999.99 / £11,500

Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS

  • Suspension: RockShox Lyrik Select+ (150mm) / RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ (140mm)
  • Groupset: Shimano XT M8100, 12 speed
  • Brakes: Shimano XT M8120 4-piston
  • Wheelset: Bontrager Line Elite 30 carbon wheels
  • Weight: 18.17kg
  • Price: $10,999.99 / £9,750

Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT

  • Groupset: SRAM GX Eagle AXS, 12 speed
  • Brakes: SRAM Code R 4-piston
  • Weight: 18.10kg
  • Price: $8,699.99 / £8,500

Trek Fuel EXe 9.7

  • Suspension: Fox Rhythm 36 (150mm) / Fox Performance Float X (140mm)
  • Groupset: Shimano XT M8100 Derailleur, SLX M7100 shifter, 12 speed
  • Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Race Alloy, 34T, 165mm length
  • Brakes: Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, M6100 lever, M6120 caliper
  • Wheelset: Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels
  • Handlebar: Bontrager Line
  • Stem: Bontrager Elite
  • Seatpost: TranzX JD-YSP39, 170mm
  • Weight: 19.05kg
  • Price: $7,599.99 / £7,100

Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

  • Suspension: RockShox 35 Gold RL (150mm) / RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT (140mm)
  • Groupset: Shimano Deore M6100, 12 speed
  • Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Plus, 34T, 165mm length
  • Brakes: Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT420 caliper
  • Wheelset: Alex MD35 wheels
  • Handlebar: Bontrager Rhythm Comp
  • Stem: Bontrager Alloy
  • Seatpost: TranzX JD-YSI-22PLQ, 170mm
  • Weight: 19.93kg
  • Price: $6,499.99 / £5,750

Graham Cottingham

Graham is all about riding bikes off-road. Based in Edinburgh he has some of the best mountain biking and gravel riding in the UK right on his doorstep. With almost 20 years of riding experience, he has dabbled in downhill, enduro, and gravel racing. Not afraid of a challenge, Graham has embraced bikepacking over the last few years and likes nothing more than strapping some bags to his bike and covering big miles to explore Scotland's wildernesses. When he isn’t shredding the gnar in the Tweed Valley, sleeping in bushes, or tinkering with bikes, he is writing tech reviews for  Bike Perfec t.

Rides: Cotic SolarisMax, Stooge MK4, 24 Bicycles Le Toy 3, Surly Steamroller

Height: 177cm

Weight: 71kg

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Trail time —

I am superman: the trek fuel exe mountain e-bike, reviewed, hitting the trails with trek's top-of-the-line mountain e-bike, the fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs..

Sheldon Waite - Dec 17, 2022 12:07 pm UTC

The Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS.

I rediscovered my bike after a few weeks in lockdown. At first, I just pedaled my cheap, steel-framed bike around the neighborhood. After a few rides, it dawned on me that this was a mountain bike! So I took it to my closest trail.

That first exhilarating ride is forever etched into my memory. The early morning sun breaking between the trees as deer darted away, the sound of tires on packed earth, and the stupid grin on my face as I rode fast, flirting at the edge of disaster—or at least pain—with my inexperience on trails. I was hooked to the point of riding the bike into the ground, taking a perverse pleasure every time something broke and I upgraded it. I eventually upgraded to a Trek Fuel EX 7 , and I love it.

The Fuel EX is Trek’s full-suspension trail mountain bike family intended for various terrains, from flowy to techie. Like every model in Trek's lineup, it comes in a large range of trim levels, including aluminum and carbon frames. (My EX 7 has an alloy frame.)

Currently, the EXe version is only available for the highest-specced 9.x bikes with carbon frames, but it is hoped that there will be an aluminum frame option in the near future.

  • Trek’s rich gearhead history displayed at its corporate offices in Waterloo, Wis. Sheldon Waite
  • Trek owns miles of fun, flowy trails that it uses to test bikes and as a perk for employees to use. Sheldon Waite

Getting my hands on the Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS involved a two-hour drive to Trek HQ in Waterloo, Wisconsin. There, I not only had a chance to speak with members of the team that developed the Trek Fuel EXe, I also got to ride Trek's private trails.

With the Fuel Exe, Trek is targeting the single-track mountain biker who rides for fun, fitness, and the outdoor experience. To achieve the look, feel, and even sound of a traditional mountain bike, Trek partnered with German technology company TQ. TQ's patented harmonic pin-ring drive can deliver 50 Nm of torque in a tiny package that fits neatly behind the chainring.

The motor offers this torque at a low RPM as it achieves a large gear reduction in a single step. Its movement is akin to a Wankel rotary engine. With the battery pack hiding in the down tube and minimalistic controls, the entire battery-motor combo adds just 8.6 lbs to the weight—an impressively low-weight addition in exchange for some real power. My EX 7 weighs just under 32 lb; the EXe comes in at 38.5 lb. Pedal assist tops out at 20 mph.

The electronic features are well-integrated into the EXe. The display is simple and easy to read at a quick glance while on the trail. Its handlebar controls are simple and intuitive, while allowing for quick cycling between the three assist modes, Eco, Mid, and High.

Customization is done through Trek's new phone app, which offers customization of the three e-bike modes by tailoring max power, assist level, and pedal response. The app defaults for these modes shift each up through Eco, Mid, High. A couple of weeks into my time with the EXe, I  tweaked the Mid settings to give me all the power with a mid-high assist, but in a gradual and controlled way. With these settings, I found my ride experience to mimic my analog bike very closely—just easier.

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Table of contents, fuel exe 9.5 review (2023).

Fuel EXe 9.5 review

The Trek Fuel EXe 9.5 is the lowest-spec bike in the company’s Fuel EXe series. They’re among the best lightweight e-MTBs you can get hold of; the bikes are easy to handle and fun to ride, without giving away too much on weight.

That’s not to say they don’t offer anything in the electrics department, either, though. They still have a bit of a punch and nicely straddle the two worlds of e-MTBs and conventional MTBs. You can end up paying top dollar for the highest-spec bikes in the range, up to around $14,000.

So, at less than half that amount, does the Fuel EXe 9.5 tick the right boxes? Or should you pay that little  bit extra for some of the other rides in this highly-regarded range? We’ve spent many hours out on the bike to get all the answers you need.

Right, then, let’s get stuck into the Fuel 9.5!

Our Verdict

Another cracking bike from the team at Trek. The introductory bike in the Fuel EXe range doesn’t disappoint, with an excellent motor, lightweight feel and natural ride experience.

The TQ motor, battery and display are real highlights, all elevating the overall ride of the bike. There are elements which could be better at the price tag you’re paying – the suspension and brakes for two – but overall, it’s still a very fun bike to ride, with great versatility.

It shines downhill, copes admirably uphill and loves a twisty trail.

We’re fans!

  • Lightweight
  • Motor display
  • Natural power delivery

Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

Fuel EXe 9.5

Price: $6,499

Weight/frame.

The Fuel EXe 9.5 has exactly the same OCLV carbon frame as the other bikes in the Fuel EXe range. That’s right, even the top spec Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS, which costs more than twice as much.

It’s certainly a good start and we’re sure you’ll also be wanting to know how much does a Fuel EXe 9.5 weigh? The total weight is 19.93kg .

It certainly isn’t feather light, but it still lends itself to being thrown around without too much difficulty, and you still very much feel in full control of the bike.

It’s easy to manipulate through the twisty sections, which is helped by the geometry options which Trek has offered. Like the rest of the Fuel EXe range, the 9.5 comes in 4 different frame sizes, each of which have two geometry settings.

ℹ️ Take your time over selecting your frame and geometry setup, because the ride experience will be elevated by nailing it down first time. It could be an expensive mistake if you don’t feel fully comfortable up there.

The frame looks the part, too, with a really refined finish and a battery tucked down nicely into the downtube, along with internally-routed cabling.

The bike mimics a traditional MTB on the descents; it feels nimble and easy to manoeuvre, yet also feels nice and planted on the trail due to its low centre of gravity.

It’s no slow-coach on the climbs, either. It copes with them well thanks to the lightweight frame and a decent punch in the motor department.

Trek has partnered with (the relatively-unknown) TQ for the electrical components. The company is more renowned within the robotic and aviation sectors, but they’ve really put a decent shift in with this collaboration with Trek.

The Fuel EXe 9.5 has a 360Wh battery supplied by TQ , which is the same size as the rest of the bikes in the Fuel EXe range. This is by no means an insignifiicant battery; you can get a decent day’s riding done out on that 360Wh battery, particularly if you use it more sparingly.

It won’t power you for hundreds of kilometres , but it will offer a welcome helping hand to a fairly capable e-MTB rider, who simply needs a small electrical nudge from time to time. It works intelligently with the motor to release the power conservatively, too.

The charge time is another success story as far as this bike’s concerned – you can get it back up to full juice in around two hours.

Fuel EXe 9.5 battery

The motor on the Fuel EXe 9.5 is another collaboration with the folk at TQ. Like the rest of the Fuel EXe range, the 9.5 comes with the TQ-HPR50 motor , which can emit a solid 50Nm of torque .

ℹ️ This isn’t the punchiest motor on earth, far from it – you can get up to 90Nm on some e-MTBs, but then you lose that natural ride feel. This bike is designed to mimic a normal MTB and feel natural, which you often lose with a big aggressive motor.

It’s important to really think about what you want from an e-MTB. If you want to be thrown up mountains all day long, with little human effort, then this bike certainly isn’t for you. However, if you just want a little leg-up, then this bike offers you a wonderful ride experience

Fuel EXe 9.5 motor

The power is delivered in a very natural way and you always feel very much in control of the bike. It’s important for that natural ride experience to have a motor which softens off nicely and comes to life gently – you can often feel pulled around by some larger motors.

TQ has nailed it with the HPR50 and it complements the other natural ride features of the Fuel EXe 9.5. Oh, and it operates silently , too – a dream out on the trails.

Motor Display

Another round of applause is necessary to the crew at TQ for the motor’s display on the Fuel EXe 9.5. It’s a very-advanced piece of kit, which puts other displays to shame – Shimano and its primitive EP8 display ought to take note.

This is a real beauty. Not only do you have the amount of remaining battery charge presented as an exact figure – something we think should be mandatory on e-MTBs – but you get much more, too.

You can customise your display to add in all sorts of important ride data – such as the estimated number of kilometres riding you have left on the battery, info about how much climbing you’ve done, your RPM, heart rate stats, and much more.

It’s more than just a display, then, it’s a fully-fledged ride companion. You can link all that data up onto your smartphone, too, and really nail down your performance out on the trails. We love it.

Fuel EXe 9.5 motor display

RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT

RockShox 35 Gold RL

RockShox 35 Gold RL

Now this is where things begin to get a little more simplistic and how the Fuel EXe 9.5 differs from some of the more expensive bikes in the range.

The Fuel EXe 9.5 comes with RockShox 35 Gold DR , Debon Air Spring forks – offering 150mm of travel . And there are RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT Shocks at the rear , with 140mm of travel .

The amount of travel is the same as the others in the range, but the components aren’t quite as plush. The best way to describe the forks is “ok”; they don’t offer the comfiest ride by any stretch of the imagination, and they aren’t quite as durable as other forks out on the market.

Can you tackle the enduro and XC-style trails you want to on the Fuel EXe 9.5? Yes. Is it a dreamy experience bouncing through those trails and up and over obstacles? Not really.

They’re ok and do the job, but not magnificently.

It’s a similar story with the shocks; for the price you’re paying for the full bike, you could get a higher spec component – it doesn’t mean the bike is bad, not at all, but Trek could have offered more here.

Overall, the suspension setup doesn’t live up to the high-level frame, battery or motor.

Wheels/Tyres

Fuel EXe 9.5 wheel

The Fuel EXe 9.5 comes with 29in wheels at both the front and the rear, with a Bontrager Line, 6-bolt Boost110 at the front end and a Bontrager alloy, 6-bolt at the rear.

This differs from some of the more expensive bikes in the Fuel EXe range, where you have fully-carbon OCLV wheels.

This is one of the factors that has raised the overall weight of the bike.

You don’t feel a great deal of difference out on the trails, they’re fairly robust and help soak up a lot of pressure when carving about.

The tyres are produced by Bontager too, with XR5 Team Issues at both the front and the rear. They offer a decent level of grip into the corners and hold up well overall. No complaints on the tyre front, they do the job you would hope of them.

The Fuel EXe 9.5 is fitted with TRP Slate Evo Hydraulic disc brakes . This is a big step down from the SRAM components on some of the more expensive Fuel EXe bike.

It’s another case of being just “ok” – they aren’t powerhouses and they do get a little hot, but then again the bike isn’t the most powerful on earth. They do an adequate job, but we think you can get much better in this department.

Fuel EXe 9.5 disc brake

The Fuel EXe 9.5 comes with a Sun Race CSMZ800 11-51, 12-speed cassette and Shimano Deore M6100, 12-speed rear derailleur .

This is an adequate pairing, but they’re far from being all-singing all-dancing.

The shifting is fairly swift, but by no means as responsive as some on the higher-spec bikes in the Fuel EXe range. Again, Trek could have offered more here

We certainly aren’t aghast at that price. You can get a lot worse for this kind of price and you’re still getting those magnificent TQ electrical components and the OCLV lightweight frame.

You’re making compromises in other areas, such as the suspension, brakes and drivetrain and maybe we could argue Trek could have knocked the price down a bit. But overall, it’s a good bike at a fairly decent price

Fuel EXe 9.5 Facts & Figures

Size configurations.

* All measurements provided in cm unless otherwise noted.

How Does it Compare?

There are a few big players in this half-and-half, MTB and e-MTB market. Specialized, Orbea and Pivot are among the manufacturers who have been pumping money, time and effort into the sector.

A fair comparison to the Fuel EXe 9.5 is the Specialied Turbo Levo SL Comp .

Turbo Levo SL Comp

It comes in at a very similar price currently, due to a big discount on the Specialized website, and you can now pick one up for $5,429, down from $7,000. It weights in at 19.4kg, half a kilogram under the Trek in this review, but it has a smaller battery, with only 320Wh, compared to the Trek’s 360Wh.

The motor on the Turbo Levo SL Comp is also lacklustre in comparison, only emitting 35Nm of torque compared to the Trek and it has a much less advanced display.

The Specialized’s FOX suspension set-up is more forgiving, though, and, overall, provides better value for money in that department – the same applies with the SRAM brakes and drivetrain that it comes with, as standard.

It’s a very close call here – you’re either getting a better electrics set-up with the Fuel EXe 9.5 or a better suspension, drivetrain and brakes set-up on the Specialized.

Both deliver their power in a natural way, but we just love the TQ motor set-up, it’s one of the best we’ve used in recent memory.

With that in mind, the Trek just sneaks it.

Final Thoughts

The Fuel EXe 9.5 is quite the introductory bike into the Trek Fuel 9.5 range. It offers some excellent features, which you find on the much more expensive bikes in the range, such as the motor, battery and frame.

It rides beautifully on the trails, with a seriously fun and natural ride experience. And although you lose out on some components, with a downgraded suspension, drivetrain and brakes, we still think it’s a very fun bike to ride, on the whole.

Could Trek offer more in those latter departments for the price tag? Yes, probably. Does it ruin the overall ride experience? Not really.

It still gets a big vote of confidence from us. Now give it a whip round the trails for yourselves.

If you enjoyed this review then make sure to check out our reviews of other Trek e-MTBs.

Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR Review

Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR Review (2023)

Fuel EXe 9.8 XT review

Fuel EXe 9.8 XT Review (2023)

Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS review

Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS Review (2023)

Fuel EXe 9.7 review

Fuel EXe 9.7 Review (2023)

+1 (918) 393 4169, [email protected].

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Fuel EXe   Trek fuel exe range extender battery availability?

  • Thread starter Mteam
  • Start date Nov 30, 2022

Mteam

E*POWAH Elite

  • Nov 30, 2022

I have a couple of questions on fuel exe batteries:- 1. Does anyone have any ideas when the fuel exe range extender battery will be available to buy (in the UK specifically,but I guess people in other regions will also want to know)? I asked various shops and none of them have any anticipated date , despite their websites saying stock available in November 22. 2. Are there plans to make different size range extenders available, I like the concept of the 160wh extender , sized as such so it can go on planes, but a 250wh one would also be good. 3. any views on when the internal battery will be available to buy? Not sure whether these questions are for @Roman or @Mitch@Trek .  

E*POWAH Master

Mteam said: I have a couple of questions on fuel exe batteries:- 1. Does anyone have any ideas when the fuel exe range extender battery will be available to buy (in the UK specifically,but I guess people in other regions will also want to know)? I asked various shops and none of them have any anticipated date , despite their websites saying stock available in November 22. 2. Are there plans to make different size range extenders available, I like the concept of the 160wh extender , sized as such so it can go on planes, but a 250wh one would also be good. 3. any views on when the internal battery will be available to buy? Not sure whether these questions are for @Roman or @Mitch@Trek . Click to expand...
  • Dec 2, 2022
  • Thread starter

BobMtnBkr

  • Dec 3, 2022

Not sure if this is an anomaly given I only have one ride on the bike… Went on my initial ride on my new Fuel 9.8 XT. Hustled through tight, leaf-covered root-fill single-track forest. Stayed in Eco the entire ride (Max 249W, assist 158% & response around 85%). Strava said I did 8.03mi, 1:05:55, 430ft. But my battery went from an indicated 90% at the start to an indicated 30% at finish. Wow. Burned way more battery than I was anticipating. And now my Trek app dashboard reads 14.3 miles and 6 hours??? After riding about an hour??? Guess I need to order a battery extender...  

socal_rider

  • Dec 4, 2022
BobMtnBkr said: Not sure if this is an anomaly given I only have one ride on the bike… Went on my initial ride on my new Fuel 9.8 XT. Hustled through tight, leaf-covered root-fill single-track forest. Stayed in Eco the entire ride (Max 249W, assist 158% & response around 85%). Strava said I did 8.03mi, 1:05:55, 430ft. But my battery went from an indicated 90% at the start to an indicated 30% at finish. Wow. Burned way more battery than I was anticipating. And now my Trek app dashboard reads 14.3 miles and 6 hours??? After riding about an hour??? Guess I need to order a battery extender... Click to expand...
  • Dec 6, 2022

mtbmonster.com

TQ HPR Range Extender Battery - Fuel EXe

mtbmonster.com

Active member

  • Dec 7, 2022

Bit of a bait and switch. Same battery and connector for all the TQ bike brands coming on board? Maybe you can get one from another brand for a better deal? Just thinking out loud.  

Swingset said: Bit of a bait and switch. Same battery and connector for all the TQ bike brands coming on board? Maybe you can get one from another brand for a better deal? Just thinking out loud. Click to expand...

CJaMTB

Well-known member

  • Dec 28, 2022
  • Jan 19, 2023

Hopefully Australia gets a decent amount first like we did the bike. I'd like to jump on the plane with my bike but can't until the range extender is available  

One mans range extender is another mans anxiety reducer. My Husqvarna FE 501 gets between 35 and 70 mpg.....depending on what 'mode' its in.  

  • Jan 20, 2023

My LBS phoned Trek for me yesterday & they are now saying 27th March in the UK  

  • Feb 25, 2023

Called trek here in New Zealand they said late ( May ) they didn't say what year lol , and we wait  

  • Feb 26, 2023

I've given up waiting and just bought another full size 360wh battery. Yesterday I asked my local trek dealer what the system was saying for availability, they said 4th April.  

JP-NZ

  • Feb 27, 2023
Mteam said: I've given up waiting and just bought another full size 360wh battery. Yesterday I asked my local trek dealer what the system was saying for availability, they said 4th April. Click to expand...
JP-NZ said: How much was the 360 batt? Click to expand...
Mteam said: £520 for the battery, and then you also need to buy the two plastic end caps and plastic handle which are about £6 each, so they add another £18. Total £538. Click to expand...
  • Feb 28, 2023
JP-NZ said: So very close in price to the RRP of the range extender plus the cable and strap then? Click to expand...
  • Mar 2, 2023

Does anyone have any actual experience swapping out to a second battery during a ride? Is it a reasonably painless process or is it a pain in the butt? I really liked the test ride I took on the exe but the range with that little battery is horrible. I’m thinking that maybe, with a second 360 for a total of 720 I could still do the kind of rides I’m used to on my Giant Trance with its 620 in trail mode, even putting the exe in boost for a similar assist feel. It’s a clunky solution forcing you to wear a full pack on rides rather than a butt pack but it might work. $750 usd for the full battery vs $600 for the tiny extender. Corridor 8-Military Pond-Mud Pond Road Loop  

eDirt said: Does anyone have any actual experience swapping out to a second battery during a ride? Is it a reasonably painless process or is it a pain in the butt? I really liked the test ride I took on the exe but the range with that little battery is horrible. I’m thinking that maybe, with a second 360 for a total of 720 I could still do the kind of rides I’m used to on my Giant Trance with its 620 in trail mode, even putting the exe in boost for a similar assist feel. It’s a clunky solution forcing you to wear a full pack on rides rather than a butt pack but it might work. $750 usd for the full battery vs $600 for the tiny extender. Corridor 8-Military Pond-Mud Pond Road Loop Click to expand...
  • Mar 3, 2023
shure2 said: A friend got a price from Torpedo 7 for a replacement 360Wh battery and it was $2k. I can get away with 500Wh total but if you need 700Wh total it's pricey... Click to expand...
  • Mar 6, 2023
Mteam said: That is pricey! $2k NZD = just over £1000! It only cost me £538 for the battery inc end caps & handle Click to expand...
Mtbikerke said: Can you send me the link where you bought the battery? Click to expand...

www.jejamescycles.com

TQ Trek HPR 360 Watt-Hour Battery Black

www.jejamescycles.com

  • Mar 7, 2023

I spoke to Trek Australia last week and the range extender is on a boat from EU to USA right now, after which they will go on another bike to AU, estimate is May in Australia.  

senergy said: I spoke to Trek Australia last week and the range extender is on a boat from EU to USA right now, after which they will go on another bike to AU, estimate is May in Australia. Click to expand...

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  • Apr 1, 2023

It seems like the range extender is now available, a few UK shops are showing it as in stock,and someone on Facebook now has one  

Just checked in with my dealer (UK) & the due date for mine is showing as 23rd April or thereabouts so has slipped another month.  

Psythepie said: Just checked in with my dealer (UK) & the due date for mine is showing as 23rd April or thereabouts so has slipped another month. Click to expand...

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trek fuel exe ride without battery

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Down to earth, out of this world First there was the forest. Next came the trail. And then there were mountain bikes. Hardtails for hammering. Full suspensions for crushing. Short travel whips. Long travel steeds. High-powered e-bikes. Now – there’s Fuel EXe. Evolved to break the mould, bridge the gap and elevate your ride with quiet assist that all but disappears in the woods. The Fuel EXe is everything you’ve been craving on the singletrack. It’s a full suspension e-mountain bike that flattens climbs and pushes you further on every ride, without interrupting the way you experience the trail. It’s your best trail ride ever, with extra Fuel in the tank.

  • watch the walkthrough

Natural look. Natural ride. Surprisingly electric.

Noise 0.12tu.

Tonality units – barely perceivable

Assist Up to 15.5 mph

Range 2-5 hrs/360 wh.

3-7.5 hrs with 160 Wh extender

Torque 50 nm

The 100 greatest innovations of 2022.

“The Trek Fuel EXe is the best new 'SL', or super-light ebike, blurring the line between purely human-powered and pedal-assist bikes.”

Innovation of the year: TQ-HPR50 Motor

'That tiny harmonic pin ring drive unit is the golden goose of e-bike motors.'

  • See the TQ-HPR50 motor

Design & Innovation Award 2023

“Trek Fuel EXe ushers in a new generation of Light-eMTBs, combining the nimble handling of an analogue mountain bike with the motor support of an ebike.”

TIME Best Inventions of 2023

The Fuel EXe's natural-feeling assist and stealthy good looks earned it a coveted spot on TIME's Best Inventions of 2023 list. From TIME. © 2023 TIME USA LLC All rights reserved. Used under licence.

Nothing else like it Most e-bike motors use gears and belts to move you forward – but belts and gears lash, slip, rattle and wear out over time. That disconnects you from the ride. The Fuel EXe uses an award-winning motor unlike anything else – the TQ’s HPR50 harmonic pin ring transmission. The HPR50 is not only smaller and lighter than traditional e-bike motors, but it also uses fewer moving parts, so it’s smoother, quieter and more durable, too. You get more of the ride experience without any downside.

  • Learn more about the TQ HPR50

Less is more

When we’re on the trail and connecting with nature, we don’t want to hear more than the sound of our tyres on the dirt, the wind through the trees, and the hoots and shouts of our riding crew. Up until now, e-bikes have pulled us away from that experience with high-pitched motors that take us out of the element. The Fuel EXe is different. It’s not only quieter – it’s less annoying.

Tonality (sound perception)

When it comes to sound, decibels don’t tell the whole story. Sounds like a ripping current of a river or wind rustling through trees might measure in as quite loud, but they don’t distract us from the ride. That has everything to do with something called tonality. Simply put, tonality is the measurement of how annoying and perceivable a sound is. It’s the difference between the crunch of leaves under your tyre, and a squeaking brake rotor.

Cadence and tonality

Tonality is measured in tonality units, or tu for short. Sounds that measure under 0.1 tu aren’t perceivable to the human ear, while sounds over 0.4 tu are grating and annoying. The Fuel EXe’s motor is tuned for tone, measuring in under 0.2 tu – five times less perceivable than other light-assist bikes – so you can forgo the annoying whine of most e-bike motors to stay in the moment and connected with nature while you ride.

Data recorded in an anechoic chamber using a calibrated B&K 4966-h-041 microphone and Siemens SCADAS data acquisition unit with an acoustically-isolated Wahoo Kickr trainer set to 300 W total resistance and bikes in maximum-assist mode. Microphone was located 1 m laterally from the bottom bracket and 1.7 m off the floor (head height) and sampled at 51,200 Hz. Tonality calculated in Siemens Testlab Neo according to the ECMA-74:2019 standard.

While some e-bikes feel cumbersome and bulky, the Fuel EXe is light, nimble and playful, just as a trail bike should be. Its capable geometry is fine-tuned for barrelling into berms and making light work of tech trails, lacing turns through tight aspens and gnawing through rowdy rock gardens. Instead of being flung uphill like a rocket launcher, the Fuel EXe’s assist feels natural, barely there – like an extension of your own power, so you can ride just as you would on a traditional mountain bike.

Built like a trail bike. Rips like a trail bike.

The Fuel EXe is built with trail bike geometry that’s slack and capable out front with a 65-degree head tube angle.

A 77-degree seat tube angle keeps you perched for punchy climbs and long pedal fests up fire roads.

With a compact motor, the Fuel EXe’s chain stays are able to stay tight at just 440 mm, keeping the ride nimble and playful.

Carbon or alloy – the choice is yours

Now with both carbon and aluminium offerings, the Fuel EXe offers incredible electric performance to meet your needs and budget. Test your mettle with the Fuel EXe Alloy or go ultra light and lively with the Fuel EXe Carbon.

Dialled for how you ride

The Mino Link lets you quickly adjust your geometry, so your bike is always tuned for the terrain and your riding style. Plus, you can take geometry tweaks even further with adjustable angle headset cups on the Fuel EXe Alloy (sold separately).

Simple battery solution

In-tube battery storage keeps your battery securely stashed while you ride, but simple to remove with just an hex wrench.

Non-stop suspension

Trek’s exclusive Active Braking Pivot keeps your suspension active while you’re braking (which is often when you need it most).

Hammer out big mile days with Range Extender. This compact bottle-shaped back-up battery offers 160 Wh of power that extends the distance you can ride by 44%. It tucks neatly in your existing bottle cage for simple connection to the charge port, which is located high on the down tube to stay clear from mud and make charging up simple. No additional hardware swapping needed. Just toss it in the existing cage, plug in and go.

Tuned to you

You’re in control with three completely adjustable motor tune settings that can be easily tweaked on the fly. Quickly adapt your Fuel EXe to your terrain or riding style from the Trek Central app.

Plan your ride

Map out the perfect ride with easy-to-use maps and let the app show you how far you’ll make it with your current battery level.

See your stats

Keep track of the hours you spend in the saddle, the distance you ride, battery usage and calories burned with activity tracking.

Make history

Scroll through a complete history of your rides and work towards new goals with ride history that logs every ride automatically when your Fuel EXe is paired to the Trek Central app.

Plays well with others

Pair your Trek Central app with Strava and Komoot to seamlessly communicate ride details and automatically log your rides across different apps.

Which is right for you?

Want an e-MTB that doesn’t hold back on power? The Rail is the choice for riders who want to blast up climbs effortlessly with a full-powered steed. It’s built for those who consider the trail their second home and want a ride that rips as hard as its non-electric siblings.

  • Shop Rail with smart system

Looking for a balance of power and natural ride feel? The Fuel EXe offers smooth assist that doesn’t overdo it. With just enough power to make climbing a breeze, and a lightweight, nimble ride that feels like a traditional trail bike, the Fuel EXe is the go-to for those who want an e-bike that doesn’t look like an e-bike.

IMAGES

  1. Trek releases the Fuel EXe, a lightweight, yet feature-packed e-MTB

    trek fuel exe ride without battery

  2. FIRST RIDE IMPRESSIONS: TREK FUEL EX-E ELECTRIC MOUNTAIN BIKE

    trek fuel exe ride without battery

  3. 2023 Trek Fuel EXe Review

    trek fuel exe ride without battery

  4. Review: Trek's 2023 Fuel EX-e Is Light & Nearly Completely Silent

    trek fuel exe ride without battery

  5. Review: Trek Fuel EXe eMTB smashes rough trails & climbs like (you're

    trek fuel exe ride without battery

  6. Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS first ride review

    trek fuel exe ride without battery

COMMENTS

  1. Fuel EXe

    Fuel EXe Why I returned the Trek Fuel EXE. Thread starter rockymountaindude; Start date Feb 11, 2023; R. rockymountaindude New Member. ... Surron Ultra Bee, 125kW/440NM motor, 4kWh battery, 240mm travel front and rear, top speed 90kph, range upto 140km, Or for the same price you can have an EX-e 9.5. ... You certainly couldn't ride it on the ...

  2. thinking about the trek fuel exe. anyone have one? the motor ...

    I love the Fuel EXe. It has replaced my main bike. It's lightweight for an eMTB 40 pounds (remove the battery = 36 pounds) and rides really well. I pedal it around neighborhood without assist and ride eco on the chill trails.

  3. Fuel Exe FAQ

    Are there any frame updates or new features found on the alloy bike that weren't on the earlier carbon Fuel EXe? Yes! Alloy Fuel Exe models are compatible with the same angle-adjust headset that works with Fuel EX Gen 6. This allows riders to install optional angled headset cups to slacken or steepen the head tube by one degree.

  4. 2023 Trek Fuel EXe Review

    Trek Fuel EXe price & specs. Globally, there will be six Trek Fuel EXe models offered for 2023. Only three of those models will be available in Australia, with prices starting at $9,499 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.5, and maxing out at $12,999 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT. All Fuel EXe models make use of the same TQ-HPR50 motor, 360Wh battery and OCLV ...

  5. Long-term review: Trek Fuel EXe shifts the standard for eMTB

    Trek EXe 9.9 AXS retails for $18,300 at Trek stores and online through Trekbikes.com. Categories: MTB | Tags: eMTB , Fuel EX-e , mtb-features , mtb-gear , review , TQ , TQ HPR50 , Trek , Trek Fuel EXe

  6. Trek Fuel EXe reviewed (finally)

    There is also a range extender battery available for the Trek Fuel EXe which gives a further 160Wh, for £450. ... Finish a ride on the Trek Fuel EXe and then instantly hop on a normal mountain ...

  7. Fuel EXe redefines e-MTB

    Fuel EXe is everything you've been craving on the singletrack. It's a full suspension e-mountain bike that flattens climbs and pushes you farther on every ride, without interrupting the way you experience the trail. It's your best trail ride ever, with extra Fuel in the tank. watch the walkthrough. Natural look.

  8. Trek Fuel EXe Lightweight eMTB Review

    DRIVE UNIT AND ELECTRONICS | Trek's Fuel EXe is one of two bikes in this Group Review which use the TQ HPR50 drive system. TQ's motor is the lightest on test at 4.07lbs (1.85kg), which produces 50Nm Torque and up to 300W power. The motor is named after the Harmonic Pin Ring system which replaces the usual cogs in a motor to produce a very ...

  9. Trek Fuel EXe Mountain Bike Review

    The Takeaway: Motor or no motor, the Fuel EXe is one of the best mountain bikes on the market right now. All new EX carbon frame with 140mm rear travel and 150mm fork. Small and light (1850 grams ...

  10. TREK FUEL EXE 2023 SERVICE MANUAL Pdf Download

    Page 21: Ride The Bike Without The Battery 2023 Fuel EXe Ride the bike without the battery The battery helps hold the motor cover in place. To ride the bike without the battery, you must install the clip nut to hold the motor cover in place. The clip nut is stored on the inside of the batter cover. Page 22: Connect Lights To The Tq Smart Box

  11. Review: Trek Fuel EXe eMTB smashes rough trails & climbs ...

    The Trek Fuel EXe is a bit of an outlier in the current e-MTB market. Most e-mountain bikes fall into one of two categories: High-powered, long-travel beasts, or lightweight, short-travel models with lower-power systems. The Fuel EXe sits in the middle, with 150/140mm travel and generous, adjustable trail geometry, and the new TQ HPR50 motor ...

  12. Review: Trek's 2023 Fuel EX-e Is Light & Nearly Completely Silent

    Breaking out into the emerging genre of lightweight e-MTBs is Trek's new sub-40 lb* Fuel EX-e. Rolling on dual 29" wheels, the EX-e touts 140mm of rear-wheel travel and a 150mm fork, just 10mm ...

  13. Trek releases the Fuel EXe, a lightweight, yet feature-packed e-MTB

    published 12 July 2022. Trek teased it as the 'dawn of a new era' and the new Fuel EXe is certainly packed with tech. (Image credit: Trek) Trek has added a brand new e-MTB, the Fuel EXe. Based on Trek's lightweight trail bike platform, the new e-MTB platform is designed to give a more natural e-MTB riding experience than Trek's existing high ...

  14. I am Superman: The Trek Fuel EXe mountain e-bike, reviewed

    Hitting the trails with Trek's top-of-the-line mountain e-bike, the Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS. Enlarge / The Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS. I rediscovered my bike after a few weeks in lockdown. At first, I just ...

  15. Introducing the 2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS

    Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS Highlights. 40.6 lb/18.4 kg ready to ride (but without pedals) TQ HPR50 360 Wh battery for 2.5 hr range (1835 g/4.04 lbs) Optional Range extender adds 160 wh and fits into included water bottle cage. Concentric motor with 50 nm of torque, 300 watts peak power, "whisper quiet" operation and 135 mm Q factor.

  16. Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS

    Model 5272517. Retailer prices may vary. Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS is mountain biking elevated. It rolls into untouched terrain that lies between traditional mountain bikes and e-bikes with new technology that silently blends in with nature, and the finest components the industry offers. From its light and stiff carbon frame and wheels to tiny but ...

  17. Fuel EXe 9.5 Review (2023)

    The Trek Fuel EXe 9.5 is the lowest-spec bike in the company's Fuel EXe series. They're among the best lightweight e-MTBs you can get hold of; the bikes are ... the bikes are easy to handle and fun to ride, without giving away too much on weight. ... The Fuel EXe 9.5 has a 360Wh battery supplied by TQ, which is the same size as the rest of ...

  18. Fuel EXe 8 XT

    3 Reviews / Write a Review. $6,599.99. Model 5300093. Retailer prices may vary. Fuel EXe 8 is a trail-ready aluminum electric mountain bike that quietly assists you on the climbs so you've got all the power you need on descents. Like its carbon counterpart, it looks and handles like a traditional trail bike, but with the added support of a tiny ...

  19. Fuel EXe 5

    Fuel EXe 5. 2 Reviews / Write a Review. $5,499.99. Model 5298747. Retailer prices may vary. Fuel EXe 5 is an aluminum electric mountain bike that brings all the tech of its carbon counterpart into a pocket-friendly package. It boasts the same tiny-but-mighty drive system that quietly disappears under you, plus a sleek display and remote.

  20. Fuel EXe

    They say the first ride will be less range than typical. From the Fuel EXe FAQ: "Please note that the battery will only last to about 15% capacity the first time it is depleted. So don't be alarmed if the range on your first ride is a little shorter than expected.

  21. The Fuel EXe redefines e-MTB

    The Fuel EXe is everything you've been craving on the singletrack. It's a full suspension e-mountain bike that flattens climbs and pushes you further on every ride, without interrupting the way you experience the trail. It's your best trail ride ever, with extra Fuel in the tank. watch the walkthrough. Natural look.