trek fuel ex 9 green

TREK FUEL EX 9.9 XX1 REVIEW

The magic school bus.

Words by Drew Rohde

The Fuel EX is Trek’s do-it-all mountain bike and is now in its sixth generation. The new 2023 Trek Fuel EX Gen 6 doesn’t just have a few minor changes either: the bike features a whole host of changes, with a completely new chassis and increased capability for all riders. Read below to find out how we got along with this completely redesigned Trek Fuel EX in this long-term review. We’ll be keeping the lab section a bit brief as we went into the features and details in great depth in our First Ride Report, found here.

• 140mm • HTA 64.5 (neutral headset cup, low Mino Link) • STA 77.2 (effective) • REACH 485mm (Large) • Adjustable geo & compression rates

Price: $10,749.99 Website: trekbikes.com

Offered in sizes XS through XL, the new Fuel EX gets an extra 10mm of rear wheel travel, bringing it to 140mm, with a 150mm fork up front. The Fuel EX has features found on other Trek mountain bikes, like their Mino Link adjustable geometry, Trek’s Active Braking Pivot (ABP) suspension, and a full-length downtube protector. However, there are plenty of awesome new features that previous generation Fuel EX’s did not have. One of those features is the downtube storage solution, which is probably our favorite and most weather-resistant compartment we’ve seen yet. On the showroom floor, the Fuel EX is a 29er, but it has the ability to run a 27.5” rear wheel when combined with a 160mm front fork. It also has an integrated tool in the stem, size specific stays, an adjustable More/Less progressive suspension chip, and angle adjustable headset cups. The new adjustable headset cup system allows riders to adjust the headset a full degree steep or slacker, From 63.5 up to 65.5. That is huge!

The Fuel EX Gen 6 has a wide range of builds starting from $3,699.99 with two aluminum frame options, before getting into the carbon fiber frames from $4,699.99. The model we have for review, the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS is the top of the line model, and comes with a price tag of $10,749.99.

With a price tag north of 10k the build better be tip top, and for the most part it is. Up front there’s a Kashima-coated 150mm travel Fox Factory 36 fork, which is paired to a Fox Factory Float X shock to control the 140mm rear travel. Driving and stopping power is delivered courtesy of an oil-slick SRAM Eagle XX1 AXS wireless groupset and SRAM Code RSC 4-piston brakes. These burly Code brakes stopping on the 203 front and 180mm rear rotors could likely be one of the bigger indicators of how capable the new Fuel EX is designed to be. In-house brand Bontrager supplies their top tier Line PRO 30 carbon wheels, which are wrapped in their SE5 tires.

The bar-stem combo is a brutally stiff Bontrager RSL unit, which features a neatly integrated multi-tool. The bar/stem combo weighs in at 250 grams, not including the weight of the multitool. The effective stem is 45mm in length and has a zero degree rise. The handlebar is supplied at a massive 820mm in width, has 27.5mm of rise, 7 degrees of back-sweep, and 6 degrees of up-sweep. Rounding out this build is the RockShox Reverb AXS seat post with 170mm of drop for sizes Large (reviewed) and XL.

The geometry of the Fuel EX was built around the need for a highly capable bike that felt at home in all terrain. The geometry is adjustable both by the Mino Link and the adjustable headset cups as mentioned above. For most of our review period the bike was ridden in the neutral headset setting (64.5°) with the Mino Link constantly being switched between both settings. In the neutral headset and low Mino Link setting, the Fuel EX has a 64.5-degree head angle; 77.2° effective seat tube angle and 38mm bottom bracket drop across the S-XL 29ers. The rear end is size-specific from 435mm to 450mm, with the size Large coming in at 440mm. The reach is 485mm, the stack is 621.3mm, and the wheelbase adds up to 1,250.2 mm on this size large test bike.

Something worth noting is that riders will see different numbers if they mount a 27.5” rear tire and increase fork travel to 160mm, which this bike is approved for. It’s crazy to think where the Trek Fuel EX was ten years ago, to now being a coil-sprung ready mullet with a 160mm fork and DH brakes! Evolution is real and we’re all for it.

Since our Bellingham, WA-based tester Dario introduced what he called a “Pretty perfect all-rounder” in our First Ride Report, the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 has been getting some hammer on the trails around Bend, Oregon. I’ve ridden every generation of Fuel EX and this is the biggest jump in evolution, hands down. Some may feel disappointed that the Fuel EX has transcended that lighter-duty all-around trail bike feel and morphed into a burlier, all-mountain bike, but we’re not mad about it. Trek’s Top Fuel will likely fill that void for riders not wanting or willing to deal with the extra heft, length and aggressive intentions the new Fuel EX has. For everyone else, the Fuel EX is now what so many others have been craving, and it’s aiming to pull riders off their Specialized Stumpjumpers and Santa Cruz Hightowers .

Despite being much more capable on the descents, the Fuel EX is a bike that needs to climb well, as most riders pushing a 140mm bike around will be pedaling to most of their downhills. The geometry, as adjustable as it is, put our riders in a pretty dialed position overall. Some of us felt the bottom bracket was a bit low for very technical, jankier trails where tall rocks, roots or ruts were commonly found. The high position helped, but it’s still something worth noting. From a suspension and efficiency standpoint, the Fuel EX held traction without bobbing deep into the travel, keeping us from feeling the urge to flip the shock lockout for all but the smoothest climbs. The bike is well balanced, and that was apparent from the get-go. It’s not the lightest, but the platform is solid, and as long as we didn’t strike a pedal, we could climb this bike up just about anything. It’s impressive on the way up.

Downhill oriented riders looking for an aggressive trail bike that they can put in big days on, or trail riders looking for a longer travel bike, will be very happy that Trek has ripped the Fuel EX’s envelope wide open. During our review period, the Fuel EX handled copious amounts of chatter and soaked up some fairly big hits, even on shuttle days chasing longer travel bikes. Right out of the gate the acceleration of this bike was quick. It doesn’t feel as sluggish as its bigger sibling, the Trek Slash , though this will likely not come as a surprise. The Fuel EX is the sportier of the two, yet the frame stiffness and body position at speed had us feeling like the Fuel EX wouldn’t be too far behind the Slash if it were a race to the bottom. While there’s no substitute for travel on truly rough terrain, the Fuel EX does well until you realize you’re at speed on terrain that would make a 160mm bike work. The downside to this is a slightly stiffer, or firmer suspension feel than previous generation Fuel EX’s. While we were very happy Trek has finally given an aggressive, progressive feel to the bike, there will no doubt be a lot more riders who will miss the in-the-saddle comfort and cushion of the older designs. With Trek’s adjustable suspension progression chip, you have the ability to give the bike more or less progression and tune the feel a bit, or opt for a coil shock if you’d like, but ultimately the fact remains, the new Fuel EX has a slightly more aggressive feel, for better or worse. It’s nowhere near VPP but closer to how a DW-Link bike feels when hitting square-edge hits at speed.

Along with making the bike feel capable in rougher terrain and at speed, that more progressive and stiffer suspension platform keeps the bike higher in its travel in berms, higher speed corners and big compressions. Flow trail riders will enjoy pushing on the pedals to get a snappy acceleration out of corners or extra hang time off jumps, and it feels as if it’d happily hang in the park from time to time.

While geometry is extremely personal, our testers from 6’3 to 5’11 felt happy overall with the 485mm reach being a pretty great middle-ground. The Medium/Large size has a 470mm reach, which could tempt some riders in that 5’9-5’11” height range, and we think that evaluating your most frequently ridden trails would be a good thing to do as there’s no doubt I would have personally had a bit more fun in some scenarios on the M/L with a 15mm shorter reach. Nevertheless, the Large still suited me fine overall. It’s awesome to see these tight size jumps being offered in the most commonly used sizes as more riders will be likely to find that “just right” fit on the Fuel EX than many alternatives.

The Wolf’s Last Word

There is a lot to talk about when it comes time to review the Trek Fuel EX. From the ground-up redesign to the on-trail performance. Without trying to drag this out, here’s our cut and dry impressions. We don’t like integrated bar/stem combos from any brand, Bontrager’s SE5 tires will likely get replaced if you ride wet rocks or roots but are fine on drier terrain. The new Fuel EX is a bit heavier, burlier and more aggressive than any previous Fuel EX, and while some may not love the changes, a lot of others are going to be going bigger, faster and harder than ever before. We really like the versatility of the bike from wheel size and geometry adjustments to suspension progression settings. We’re sure most riders will set and forget, but at least you’ll be able to set it in the ideal spot for your terrain and style, or switch it up somewhere down the line.

Price: $10,749.99 Website: Trek.com

SPECIFICATIONS

CHASSIS Frame: Carbon | 140mm Fork: Fox 36 Factory Float | 150mm Shock: Fox Factory Float X Performance | 2-pos | 185x55mm

COCKPIT Brakes: SRAM CODE RSC 4-piston | 200/180mm rotors Bar: Bontrager RSL integrated handlebar/stem | width: 820mm | rise: 27.5mm | Stem: 45mm Seatpost: RockShox Reverb AXS 34.9mm | XS/S:100mm | M/ML: 150mm | L/XL: 170mm Saddle: Bontrager Arvada

WHEELS Wheelset: Bontrager Line PRO 30 Tires: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 29×2.5”

DRIVETRAIN Cassette: SRAM Eagle XG 1299 | 10-52T | 12spd Cranks: SRAM XX1 Eagle | 30t | 170mm Shifter: SRAM Eagle AXS | 12spd Derailleur: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS

Fast, confident and ready to rock! More capable than ever Great downtube storage solution Adjustable and versatile geometry options Med/Large size

We don’t, bar/stem combo se5 tires in the wet some may not like the newer, burlier bike’s transition, leave a comment | win free stuff.

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First Ride Review | The 2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 Is One Seriously Refined Trail Bike

The not-so-minor details.

2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01

Trek Bicycles Australia

https://www.trekbikes.com

Handy internal storage feature Solid chassis with supple suspension Not too big, not too small

We'll get back to you on this one...

Oooh goody, a new Trek Fuel EX! This is particularly exciting for us; the existing Fuel EX is a bike we know well and have spent plenty of time on over its long life, changing every few years to keep up to the current standard the new 2020 one is a slick trail bike with well thought out features. So let’s take a look!

See the 2020 Trek Fuel EX in action in the video here

Walk-In Wardrobe, Glovebox, Pie-Hole, Not-S.W.A.T, Or simply ‘Storage’

Yep, the new carbon frame Fuel EX has internal storage in the downtube. Wait, what? We can hear you thinking ‘OMG, they copied Specialized!’. Maybe they did, or perhaps the bigger story is that Specialized was the first to make it worthwhile, and now Trek is making it possible for its bikes too. Good on them either way, it’s a great feature, and we welcome it to the trail.

Flick the lever, lift off the cage, and you’ve got access to a whole lot of space to stash your bits, store them in there, so you never leave them behind and keep them out of the way of water and mud for safekeeping.

Included with the new Fuel EX is a tool wrap and bottle cage to complete the storage picture, so you can wrap everything together for silent storage and fill a bottle with your favourite water product, leaving a hydration backpack at home for shorter trail blasts.

Curious to see how it actually works, make sure to check out the video above.

Full Floater Be Gone!

The second most noticeable change to the frame is down in the centre of things. Following the Session, Slash, Remedy and Top Fuel, the new Fuel EX is now Full Floater-free. A feature introduced many years ago to give Trek’s suspension gurus the rear shock rate they wanted, the shock would mount to the chainstay (see on the 2019 model below) and would travel downwards when compressed. Trek states that the latest high-volume shocks now perform well enough and can be tuned to achieve better results without need for the Full Floater linkage.

Without the Full Floater taking space around the BB and main pivot, the frame can be constructed with higher stiffness. No front derailleurs allowed either, a single-ring or nothing situation now.

Longer, Slacker, Steeper, Lower & All The Modern Classic Hits

We were initially concerned that the new bike would follow the apparent trends of bikes for 2020 and increase in overall size and suspension travel, but the Fuel EX stays 130mm of travel on the rear, just with a 10mm increase in fork travel up to 140mm.

Geometry scores a fairly predictable software update, with a longer reach of around 10-20mm depending on size. Head angles slacken by one notch to 66° and to keep the bike’s length in check as the reach grows, the seat angle steeps to 75°. This is all about keeping the new Fuel EX up to date with modern standards. It wasn’t like the previous version felt outdated in any one way, but as we were to find out this one is just that little bit easier to ride hard, while also being more spritely on the climbs.

The top tube is significantly lower, for longer dropper posts and increased standover too, a good move as we wanted to upsize on the previous model but found the seat tube height would restrict the decent range of a 150mm dropper post. Problem solved!

2020 Trek Fuel EX Geometry

All Carbon, Universal Mech Hanger, Rebound Numbers & Thumb-Friendly Dropper

Moving into 2020 the carbon Fuel EX models are all carbon; no more aluminium rear ends. This is something we’ve seen a lot of lately, the 2020 Specialized Enduro and Giant Reign and Trance 29 for example.

While around the back end of the bike, we spotted a suspicious ‘UDH’ marking on the rear derailleur hanger. After a little digging, we were told it’s a new universal derailleur hanger standard that the kind folks at SRAM have conceptualised. Imagine that, a universal hanger! Let’s see who adopts it next and whether it actually becomes a thing…

Numbers on rebound dials make a lot of sense, but shock manufacturers have been reluctant to do this as it needs to be set at the factory to match the frame. But, sounds like Trek hassled Fox enough and look what we have here – numbers! So much easier for setup for all involved. Good stuff, Trek.

Bontrager’s new dropper post remote is a significant improvement over the silver ‘button’ of previous models. Under the thumb, the lever-action is tighter and less wobbly. A small but nice touch that we appreciated.

Throw More Fuel On The Trail

We recently took the stealth black 2019 Fuel EX 9.9 on a trip to Derby, Tasmania, so we certainly are familiar with its vibe. The new Fuel EX feels similar but manages to charge descents harder and jumps up short sharp pinches easier. In the saddle, and out of the saddle, we felt the new Fuel was more responsive to hard pedal strokes than the previous model. Put that down to the revised shock tune, longer reach and steeper seat angle or a stiffer bottom bracket area, either way, it’s super zippy.

With a robust Fox 36 (previous versions used a Fox 34) fork leading the way, and a stiffer feeling chassis overall, the Fuel EX commands more respect from obstacles when confronted by nasty sections of trail. It’s able to plough a little harder but hasn’t lost that ultra-supple suspension feeling and sensitive reactions to choppy surfaces. Older model Fuel EX bikes would have such a cushy rear end that it required constant use of the shock’s compression lever. Nowadays the sensitivity is there, but the shock can better differentiate between body weight shifts and pedalling bounce from trail chatter.

With such a solid frame and fork it risks feeling harsh and transferring feedback to the rider, but the suspension works overtime to smoothen things out. We’d make sure to keep on top of the regular fork and shock maintenance, or that might change. Take a heavy landing though, and the Fuel EX won’t seem too fazed.

Australian Availability

We’ll see six models of the new Fuel EX coming to our shores; three aluminium and three carbon. Here’s the full rundown on what you’ll be seeing in Trek stores very soon.

2020 Trek Fuel EX 5

• Frame | Alpha Platinum Alloy, 130mm Travel
• Fork | RockShox Recon RL, 46mm Offset, 140mm Travel
• Shock | RockShox Deluxe Select Plus, 210x55mm
• Wheels | Alex MD35 Rims & Bontrager Alloy Sealed Bearing Hubs
• Tyres |  Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 29×2.6in Tyres
• Drivetrain | Shimano Deore 1×10 w/Race Face Ride Cranks
• Brakes | Shimano MT200
• Seatpost | TranzX Dropper Post, 130mm Travel
• RRP | $2,999

2020 TrekFuel EX 7

• Fork | RockShox 35 Gold, 44mm Offset, 140mm Travel
• Shock | Fox Float DPS EVOL, Performance Series, 210x55mm
• Wheels | Bontrager Line Comp 30, 29mm Inner Rim Width
• Drivetrain | SRAM NX Eagle 1×12 w/NX Eagle Cranks
• Brakes | Shimano MT400
• RRP | $3,699

2020 Trek Fuel EX 8

• Fork | Fox 34 Rhythm, GRIP Damper, 44mm Offset, 140mm Travel
• Shock | Fox Float DPS EVOL, Performance Series, RE:aktiv Damper, 210x55mm
• Drivetrain | SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 w/Descendent 6K Eagle Cranks
• Brakes | Shimano Deore M6000
• Seatpost | Bontrager Line Dropper Post, 150mm Travel
• RRP | $4,499

2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.7

• Frame | OCLV Mountain Carbon Fibre, 130mm Travel
• Drivetrain | SRAM NX/GX Eagle 1×12 w/Descendent 6K Eagle Cranks
• Brakes | Shimano MT420
• RRP | $4,999

2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.8

• Fork | Fox 36 Float, Performance Series, GRIP Damper, 44mm Offset, 140mm Travel
• Shock | Fox Float EVOL w/Thru-Shaft, Performance Series, RE:aktiv Damper, 210x55mm
• Drivetrain | SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 w/Descendent 7K Eagle Cranks
• Brakes | Shimano SLX M7120 4-piston
• Seatpost | Bontrager Line Elite Dropper Post, 170mm Travel
• RRP | $6,999

2020 Trek Fuel EX 9.9

• Fork | Fox 36 Float, Factory Series, GRIP2 Damper, 44mm Offset, 140mm Travel
• Shock | Fox Float EVOL w/Thru-Shaft, Factory Series, RE:aktiv Damper, 210x55mm
• Wheels | Bontrager Line Carbon 30, 29mm Inner Rim Width
• Drivetrain | SRAM X01 Eagle 1×12 w/X01 Eagle Carbon Cranks
• Brakes | Shimano Deore XT M8120 4-piston
• RRP | $9,499

What do you think of the 2020 Fuel EX? Worth updating form the 2019 model, or perhaps this bike would make you consider dropping down from a longer travel bike to take advantage of a more engaging ride that’s still robust and solid? We may or may not have one of these slick new Fuel EX bikes coming to our hot hands soon, so keep an eye out for more.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. Cheers for reading!

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• Buyers Guide

• Technical Details

• All Mountain

Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Review

• good complete bike for the price
• 25 years warranty
• with 13,7 kg lighter than comparable bikes

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Fuel EX 9.7 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (All Mountain up to 6000 €) ⬤ .

VALUE for MONEY CHECK

If you are keen on value for money, this is your chart. It shows you at a glance how many bike you get for 4599 €.

Expirience with the Trek Fuel EX 9.7

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Trek fuel ex 9.7 vs canyon neuron cf 9 sl.

Je steiler der Winkel des Sitzrohrs ist, desto effizienter können Sie in die Pedale treten.

• Frame Fuel EX Carbon
• Frame Material Carbon
• Fork Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Kabolt axle, 140mm travel
• Spring Unit air
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Damper Size: XS, S, Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 52.5mm; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 55mm
• Gearrange 510%
• Drivetrain 1x12
• Gear Lever Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
• Rear Derailleur Shimano XT M8100, long cage
• Crank Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, Shimano MT611, 30T steel ring, alloy spider, 52mm chainline, 170mm length; Size: XL, Shimano MT611, 30T steel ring, alloy spider, 52mm chainline, 175mm length
• Cassette Shimano SLX M7100, 10-51, 12 speed
• Chain Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
• Brake Set Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, M6100 lever, M6120 caliper
• Brake Rotors 180/180
• Wheel Set Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle
• Front Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle
• Tires Front Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 60 tpi, 27.5x2.50''; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.50''
• Tires Rear Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 60 tpi, 27.5x2.50''; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.50''
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138mm width
• Seat Post Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line Dropper, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 345mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, Bontrager Line Dropper, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 440mm length
• Stem Size: XS, S, Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 35mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 45mm length
• Handle Bar Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 750mm width; Size: M, ML, L, XL, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
• Handle Bar Width 780
• Head Set Knock Block Integrated, 58-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

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2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5 Review

Are you a mountain biker in search of a reliable, high-performance bike that’s both agile and comfortable? You’re in luck. Trek has just released their new Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5, and it promises to deliver a great ride experience.

Mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular; as such, bike manufacturers are continuously striving to design bikes that meet the needs of all types of riders.

Trek has come out with the Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5, which takes the best features from older models and adds in some innovative new ones to create a bike that’s more advanced than ever before.

If you’re looking for the perfect mountain bike, then have no fear: the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5 may be just what you need!

We’ve got an in-depth review of this incredible machine that breaks down its features, performance capabilities, and overall value so you can make an informed decision about your next mountain bike purchase.

The Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5 is a 2020 full-suspension cross country mountain bike that excels in any off-road terrain.

Built with strong and lightweight OCLV Mountain Carbon, the Fuel EX 9.7 is a fast and responsive cross country mountain bike optimized for smooth and flowy trails.

Boasting a 1×12 Shimano drivetrain, long travel fork and tubeless ready Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tires, the Fuel EX 9.7 provides great value for its price range.

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5 is an all-purpose full suspension mountain bike designed for versatile performance on any terrain.

This is the newest version of Trek’s iconic Fuel EX series and with it comes the latest technology and features, including the lightweight and yet max strength OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame and stays, 27.5 tubeless ready Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels, 140mm travel front Fox Rhythm 36 fork, 12-speed Shimano drivetrain, Bontrager Line Dropper seat post and other components that create a plush but powerful ride experience on trails or all mountain endeavors.

– OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame and stays offers strength and durability 

– Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper fork provides 140mm of travel in front

– Fox Performance Float EVOL with 3-position RE:aktiv damper provides 210mm x 52.5mm of travel out back

– Shimano XT/SLX 1×12 drivetrain for serious shifting power

– 27.5″ Tubeless Ready alloy Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels

– Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tires for traction in any conditions

– Updated geometry ideal for better control on descents plus more agility when climbing up terrain

– Bontrager Line Dropper seat post

The frame of the Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5 features a unique combination of OCLV Mountain Carbon that makes it lightweight yet rigid enough to attack the trail without feeling flexy or bouncy.

The frame also has full internal cable routing ensuring that your shifting performance is at its peak even under extreme conditions as well as integrated protection for both chainstay and downtube providing excellent durability against rocks, roots, mud and more.

The Fox suspension system featured on the Fuel EX 9.7 offers a total of 130mm of travel in tune with their Split Pivot rear linkage giving you an agile ride with efficient pedaling characteristics without sacrificing responsiveness when climbing or descending steep trails.

Featuring Shimano’s latest 12 speed drivetrain which includes a XT rear derailleur, XT 11 speed Cassette (10-51t) and Shimano SLX M7100 Shifter providing you with ample gear range for climbing steep ascents or flying down technical descents while maintaining reliable performance season after season keeping you away from the downtime associated with components prone to failure due to overheating or range limitations under extreme conditions.

Wheelset & Tires

Coming standard on Bontrager’s tried-and-true Line Comp 30 tubeless ready wheelset coupled up with Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tubeless ready tires gives you plenty of grip whether braking hard into turns as well as allowing for greater control and confidence when pushing through corners knowing that your equipment is up to par no matter what terrain you encounter without unnecessary weight being added from rotational mass components.

All things considered, if you’re looking for a capable full-suspension mountain bike built for tackling any off road terrain then the all new Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 5 may be just what you are looking for!

Capping everything off by coming standard with some top tier components including quality carbon fiber frame construction, updated suspension platform as well as dependable Shimano drivetrain components gives this model great bang per buck values offering superb performance across mixed terrain rides demanding fast-paced action filled adventure each time out!

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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Trek Fuel EX 9.9 first ride review

• Jamie Darlow
• October 8, 2022

More travel, more progression, more geometry adjustment, more sizes - the Trek Fuel EX gets the Oliver Twist makeover.

Trek Fuel EX Credit: Roo Fowler

Product Overview

Trek fuel ex 9.9.

• Great sizing, and range of sizes. Brilliant geometry, and ability to tweak it as you want. Quality, damped frame with beautiful finish and details.
• Incredible price. The shock is overdamped. One-piece carbon bar is too wide. Tyres are unpredictable.

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:.

Trek has launched a brand new version of the Fuel EX trail bike, and with it a ton of new features and updates to address pretty much any quibble you had with the old bike. We’re talking about: a chip to let you tune the progression of the shock; head angle adjustment to complement the existing Mino Link; size specific chainstays; downtube storage across the whole range; more travel; and loads more.

It was a great bike before, a bike test winner in fact and one of the best full suspension mountain bikes we’d ever ridden. The new bike promises to take that a stage further.

Fuel EX frame is a work of art, with oversized carbon tubing and a liquid custard paintjob

Need to know

• Head angle goes as slack as 63.5° thanks to new headset cups that complement the Minnow Link chips
• Longer, lower and slacker geometry, with a steeper seat tube angle for better pedalling
• Travel is up by 10mm from the old bike, to 140mm front, 150mm rear
• Eight sizes, 29in wheels predominate, with 27.5in on the smallest sizes
• New progression chip lets you tweak the shock position and add more platform
• Fuel EX can take almost any shock on the market, Trek says, coil and air
• Six models in the range, alloy and carbon: from £3,300 for the Fuel EX 7 to £11,750 for the 9.9 XX1 AXS

EX or EXe… Spot the difference

First though, how similar does the new Fuel EX look to the also-new Fuel EXe e-bike? They even sport the same travel. This is deliberate; Trek wants you to make a choice between the bikes based on how much help you want, not on how the bikes look, how much travel they bring or the ride feel they deliver.

That means the new Fuel EX looks like an e-bike that in turn looks like a regular bike. Whaaat?!

10mm more travel

So to the new Fuel EX. Trek has boosted the travel by 10mm, taking it to 140mm rear and 150mm front. Because who doesn’t want more travel? Also, Trek’s thinking is that the Fuel EX can be more than just a trail bike if it wants, so there are options to increase the travel further, swap the wheel sizes and even fit a different shock.

The Fox 36 fork looks positively dinky on the new Fuel EX frame

Longer, lower, slacker, steeper

LLSS is the new LLS. Just like on the old bike, the new Fuel EX comes with Minnow Link, two little flip chips on the rocker link that let you change the BB height and head angle. That means the head angle is down to 64.5° in the slack setting, a full degree slacker than when we tested the old version of the bike.

The BB height is lower too – on paper it’s just 2mm, but with 10mm more travel to contend with this means at sag the bike will hug the ground more closely. The Minnow Link changes that BB too of course, raising or lowering it by 8mm.

Minnow Link is now more useable, with a properly low setting that drops the BB and slackens the head angle

All told, the new bike’s high position gives it the same geometry figures the old bike commanded in its low position, with the longer fork slotted into both bikes. This makes the Minnow Link a lot more usable now, you won’t just be slinging it into low position and forgetting about it.

Trek has taken a leaf from the Specialized brochure, and gone with adjustable headset cups, so you can tune the head angle +/- 1°. That’s useful if you want to keep the bottom bracket the same height, and independently change your head angle.

It works like this – the upper cup just drops in, and you turn it 180° to steepen or slacken the angle. The lower cup is more fiddly, it needs to be pressed in but the bike comes with it installed. The cups have notches and laser-engraved guides to help you install them straight.

Bontrager carbon wheels are excellent, but the SE5 Team Issue tyres lack bite

What, no mullet?

The Fuel EX remains a 29in wheel bike in most of the eight sizes on offer (XS-XXL). The exceptions are the diddiest XS which is 27.5in and the S which you can get as a 29er or 27.5in. There’s nothing stopping you putting a 27.5in wheel in the back of the Fuel EX though, and Trek actually endorses this, with suggestions on how to set it up. Put it in the high mode, and adjust the air assembly in the fork to give you 160mm travel to keep the BB from getting pedal-bonkingly low, it says.

Sizing has grown with the new bike, each size is 10-20mm bigger in the reach measurement. Fortunately, to compensate for that longer front end, Trek has built a longer back end too – the chainstays are at last size specific and range from 435mm on the XS bike up to 450mm on the XXL. The seat tube is steeper this time around too, for a better climbing position, so in theory when you’re sat down and pedalling you won’t notice the extra length in the bike because you’ll be shunted forwards.

One final word on geometry, there’s now a chart on the Trek website to let you see how the geometry will change when you tinker with the adjustment hardwear.

Trek has introduced more progression, should you want it, thanks to a flip chip

The suspension

Here’s the big change, in my mind. If the old bike had a flaw it was that the suspension didn’t have much of a platform. Instead it was sensitive off the top. On reflection, is that really a flaw in a trail bike? We didn’t think so, but plenty of riders are looking for more progression, so Trek has added some. Or more accurately, the ability to add some, with a progression chip.

The new frame lets you adjust the position of the shock by moving the lower mounting point further aft and increasing the leverage rate, building in more of a platform. And for those who liked the suspension feel just fine before, just leave the chip unchanged.

If looks could thrill

The Fuel EX looks plenty like its predecessor, but there are some subtle changes conjured up by Trek to make room for all the features included, like the progression chip. The shock has shifted further forward, the idea being to give it more space and allow for every shock on the market to fit in there. “If it’s out there it’ll fit on this bike,” Trek says.

Trek’s made more space around the shock, meaning you’ll be able to fit pretty much any shock going

In practice that means every shock from Fox, RockShox, DVO, Push and MRP can be fitted to the Fuel EX. There are exceptions, largely if you’re trying to fit one of the really big reservoir shocks into a size small frame, Trek seys.

The bike has moved to a 34.9 seatpost now, which is stiffer and more reliable too, particularly at the 200mm length in XXL bikes, while frame storage now comes on the alloy bikes as well as carbon frames. Inside both carbon and alloy bikes is fully guided internal cable routing. Outside is a full length, removable plastic guard on the downtube.

Top end Project One bike is a playboy price, just under £12,000, but there are plenty of better value bikes in the range

With six models in the range, eight sizes, and two different wheel sizes, the Fuel EX is a distributor’s nightmare… and a rider’s dream.

The entry level Fuel EX 5 isn’t new; it uses last year’s frame, meaning you get 130/140mm travel and entry level components. The 7 is an alloy bike and uses the new chassis and its new downtube storage and retails at £3,300, while the 8 is still alloy but introduces 36mm stanchion forks and the Float X shock for £4,000.

There are three Fuel EX 9 models, and all use a full carbon fibre frame. The 9.7 is the entry level carbon bike and costs £4,800 with a Shimano SLX/XT drivetrain. Step up to 9.8 and you gain XT or GX AXS shifting for £6,850 or £7,450 respectively, while the top end 9.9 features full XTR or XX1 AXS at £9,900 or £11,750.

Cut the bars down and let some air out of the tyres and the Fuel EX takes off

How it rides

The Fuel EX 9.9 comes with a one-piece, carbon-fibre bar and stem, and at 830mm (including grips) it’s way too wide and flexy to ride well. I lopped it down to 780mm and at a stroke that cured the front end problems I’d been having – chiefly, the scary undamped sensation when pitching into steep corners. The Bontrager tyres have been hard to get on with too, at 2.5in wide and without pronounced side lugs it’s hard to make them bite into soft terrain. I dropped the pressures down to improve the feel… and I mean way down, 19psi in the front and 21psi in the rear to make the ride less pingy and more predictable. I probably could have gone further too, given there was no squirm even that low, while the sidewalls proved effective at fending off pinchflats.

That done, the bike was free to ride like its true self. The Fox Float X shock is supple off the top and bobs a little going uphill, but the EX is an expert climber probably because it gets great traction from the active shock, while the steep seat angle and long chainstays pitch you forwards. That aggressive seat angle disguises just how big this XL bike is too, it has a huge 515mm reach making it one of the longest bike’s I’ve ever ridden. In fact, I could probably step down a size, although there’s a huge jump down to the Large with its 485mm reach. All told though, the bike feels compact enough when sat down and pedalling yet long in reach when out of the saddle.

Big sizing puts you in the ideal position on the bike for maximum confidence

The Fuel EX retains the stiff and bombproof feel of the old bike, it’s very direct and trails have a hard time deflecting it off course. The carbon frame has a great, damped feel, it’ll bulldoze its way across off-camber sections and let you set up wide, yet somehow manages to cushion you from the worst of the trail chunder you’re trucking over.

The suspension is supple and works well right off the top, but I did have to wind off all the low speed compression damping to make it come alive, which makes me think it’s overdamped. Fully open though, there’s plenty of traction in the dry and loose conditions I rode in, with enough support for trail riding.

The Fuel EX is a precision ride, able to pick through the roots or dance over them

When I back-to-backed the EX with the EXe the e-bike felt more like an enduro bike, with better suspension and simply more control on the trail. This is really interesting because both bikes have identical components and suspension travel, and both felt slightly overdamped. With the right shock I’m perfectly prepared to believe the Fuel EX could work well as an enduro bike then – the frame can certainly handle it.

• Best mountain bikes: the ultimate trail, cross-country and enduro bikes
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• The Trek Fuel EXe review

Trek knows how to make a well finished bike, and the Fuel EX is the latest demonstration of this. It’s ridiculously well finished, everything from the down tube storage to the new steerer-hidden BITS multitool and the bolted-on (not glued) chainstay protector is solid and reliable. The Fuel gets better in every iteration, the only problem is now you can get it with a motor in… too tempting for some riders, myself included.

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Field Test: Trek Fuel EX - Evolution Underlined

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Trek Fuel EX 9

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Colour / Trek Black/Team Green

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

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Platinum Aluminum, ABP Convert, Full Floater, E2 tapered head tube, internal cable routing, Stealth dropper post routing, magnesium EVO Link, ISCG 05 mount, down tube guard, 130mm travel  
• Wheels Bontrager Rhythm Elite Tubeless Ready 28-hole disc wheel system, 15mm front hub; 142x12mm rear hub
• Wheel Size 26"
• Tires Bontrager XR3 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, 26x2.20"
• Crank Shimano Deore XT, 42/32/24
• Front Derailleur Shimano Deore XT, direct mount
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore XT Shadow Plus
• Shifters Shimano Deore XT, 10 speed
• Brakeset Shimano XT hydraulic disc brakes
• Handlebar Bontrager Race Lite Low Riser, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 9 degree sweep
• Saddle Bontrager Evoke 2, chromoly rails
• Seatpost RockShox Reverb, 31.6mm, zero offset
• Stem Bontrager Race Lite, 31.8mm, 7 degree
• Headset FSA IS-2, E2, fully integrated alloy cartridge

Q: What size wheels does the 2013 Trek Fuel EX 9 have?

The 2013 Trek Fuel EX 9 has 26" wheels.

Q: What size 2013 Trek Fuel EX 9 should I get?

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What we know about the Moscow concert hall attack

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Russia has been left reeling in the wake of the nation’s worst terrorist attack in decades.

ISIS has claimed responsibility for the massacre, which saw  armed assailants storm a popular concert venue complex  on the outskirts of Moscow, killing more than 130 people.

Nearly a dozen people have been detained in connection with the atrocity, according to authorities. Among them, four suspected gunmen from the former Soviet republic of Tajikistan have been charged with terrorism and remanded into pre-trial detention.

Here’s what we know.

What happened?

Attackers armed with guns and incendiary devices opened fire at random at the Crocus City complex - home to a popular music hall and shopping center - on Friday night.

Crowds were still filing in but the auditorium was already packed with people ahead of a concert by the band Picnic. Some 6,500 tickets had reportedly been sold for the show. But instead of a night dancing away to rock music, sheer chaos unfolded.

Panicked eyewitnesses captured on video the exact moment gunmen, dressed in camouflage fatigues and carrying automatic weapons, started shooting indiscriminately. The footage showed concertgoers screaming and ducking for cover behind cushioned seats while others huddled together as shots echoed through the vast hall.

During the rampage, one group sheltering next to a large wall of windows outside the concert venue were forced to break them to escape the gunfire, video obtained by CNN shows.

An unnamed man who survived the attack said the gunmen entered the concert hall and “started shooting everyone.”

“I was sitting in the hall upstairs where the balconies were. We heard gunshots. At first, we didn’t understand what had happened,” he said in an interview with Ostorozhno Novosti, which was published by Reuters. The attackers threw a Molotov cocktail, and then “everything was set on fire,” he added.

The band’s manager later told state media the performers were unharmed.

A SWAT team was called to the area and more than 70 ambulance teams and doctors assisted victims.

A large fire at Crocus City caused the venue’s roof to partially collapse. Nearly 500 personnel worked to dismantle rubble at the scene, the Russian Emergencies Ministry said.

How many people were killed?

At least 137 people were killed in the terror attack, according to Russia’s Investigative Committee on Saturday. Authorities say that number is likely to rise as emergency responders work through the scene.

Additionally, more than 100 others were injured – with many of them in serious condition , including two children.

Moscow region Gov. Andrey Vorobyov said Saturday the victims would receive financial compensation from the region and city governments.

Relatives of each of those killed would receive 3 million rubles ($32,500), while the injured would receive 1 million rubles ($10,840) each.

“Children registered in the Moscow region whose father or mother died in the tragedy will also receive monthly payments. In addition, we will compensate everyone for burial expenses and resolve all legal issues,” Vorobyov added.

Who was behind the attack?

ISIS claimed responsibility for the assault in a short statement published by the ISIS-affiliated Amaq news agency on Telegram on Friday.

The following day, the terror group published an image through Amaq purporting to show the four men who had attacked the complex. None of the men were identifiable in the image; all were wearing balaclavas and the rest of their faces are blurred.

ISIS described the attack as the “fiercest in years,” according to a translation of the message by the SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors terror groups’ propaganda.

Amaq also provided details of the attack, saying that three fighters attacked the crowd with guns and knives while the fourth threw incendiary devices. It said the attack was preceded by an intensive surveillance operation of the venue.

“The attack comes within the normal context of the raging war between the Islamic State and countries fighting Islam,” it added, according to SITE’s translation.

The United States had previously warned Moscow that ISIS militants were determined to target Russia in the days before assailants stormed the concert hall.

Earlier this month, the US embassy in Russia had said it was “monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow,” including concerts, and it warned US citizens to avoid such places.

US National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said the US government had “shared this information with Russian authorities in accordance with its longstanding ‘duty to warn’ policy.”

But in a speech on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin had blasted the American warnings as “provocative,” saying “these actions resemble outright blackmail and the intention to intimidate and destabilize our society.”

Experts said the scale of the carnage would be deeply embarrassing for the Russian leader, who had championed a message of national security just a week earlier when winning the country’s stage-managed election.

Over the past month, Russia has thwarted several ISIS related incidents in March alone, according to state-run news agency RIA Novosti.

There have been at least four reported incidents across Russia that local authorities said involved people connected to ISIS, according to RIA.

Who are the main suspects?

Four men from the ex-Soviet republic of Tajikistan have been remanded into pre-trial detention through May 22 after appearing in court in Moscow on Sunday accused of carrying out the terror attack, according to Russian authorities and state media.

The four, aged in their 20s and 30s, were named as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, Saidakrami Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni and Mukhammadsobir Faizov by Moscow City Courts on Telegram.

Three of the men pleaded guilty to committing a terrorist act during closed hearings, according to Moscow courts and state news agency TASS. All four face possible life imprisonment.

Images from the courtroom showed the suspects with bruised faces, including one man wearing a bandage on the right side of his head. Another suspect appeared nonresponsive in a wheelchair and was accompanied by a doctor to court, a Moscow City Court video on Telegram showed.

The Kremlin said earlier that four people believed to be directly involved in the attack had been arrested while trying to cross the border into Ukraine, according to TASS and other state media outlets.

RIA later published the purported confession of one of the men on Telegram. In a brief video, a man with a bloodied, bandaged head, speaks in halting Russian. He gives his name and age of 30. When asked where the weapons from the attack were dropped off, he replies, “I don’t know the city, ask my friends, they know.”

CNN cannot independently verify the veracity of the RIA Novosti report or the statements made by the alleged attacker, which may have been made under duress.

RIA also posted images of three of the alleged attackers after they were detained, which match videos uploaded on unofficial channels earlier Saturday showing the men being apprehended in the southwestern region of Bryansk.

RIA said one of the alleged attackers had mentioned returning to Russia from Turkey earlier this month.

It also reported that the group lived together in a hostel in the north of Moscow and that at least two of the four perpetrators met only “10-12 days ago.” The car they drove to Crocus City Hall and then used to escape had been bought through a family connection.

Earlier, Russian state media reported that the head of the Russian Security Service, Alexander Bortnikov, had told the Russian leader that 11 people had been detained in connection with the attack.

What else is Russia saying?

Putin expressed his deep condolences following the shooting, describing it a “bloody and barbaric act” in a video statement released Saturday.

He showed gratitude to emergency service workers who “did everything to save people’s lives, to get them out from under fire, from the epicenter of fire and smoke,” and said agencies were working to establish the details of the massacre.

Putin also appeared to pin the blame on Ukraine for the deadly attack, when he claimed that a “window” was prepared for attackers to escape to Ukraine.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said on Telegram: “Now we know in which country these bloody bastards planned to hide from persecution – Ukraine.”

Ukraine strenuously denied any involvement. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said Friday: “We consider such accusations to be a planned provocation by the Kremlin to further fuel anti-Ukrainian hysteria in Russian society, create conditions for increased mobilization of Russian citizens to participate in the criminal aggression against our country and discredit Ukraine in the eyes of the international community.”

Ukrainian Defense Intelligence alleged Friday – without giving evidence that the attack was planned by Russian special services to justify increased strikes on Ukraine.

What’s the international response been?

Condemnation of the attack from world leaders has been swift. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday said the US “strongly” condemned the massacre and while passing along “our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and all affected by this heinous crime.”

There were similar sentiments from British Foreign Secretary David Cameron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who conveyed that his nation’s “thoughts are with the families of all the victims and all those injured.”

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said his country hopes that the attack won’t become “a pretext for anyone to escalate violence and aggression” in  a post on X . Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed solidarity with all Russians, while India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman both also denounced the attack.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping offered his condolences to Putin on Saturday “over the serious terrorist attack that caused heavy casualties,” according to a report from Chinese state media.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council labeled it a “heinous and cowardly” attack, as Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the incident “in the strongest possible terms.”

This story has been updated with additional information.

CNN’s Anna Chernova, Darya Tarasova, Tim Lister, Mariya Knight, Mia Alberti, Jennifer Hauser, Paul Murphy, Matthew Chance, Mary Kay Mallonee, Katherine Grise, Chris Lau, Samantha Waldenberg, Masha Angelova, Josh Pennington and Kathleen Magramo contributed reporting.

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A Guide to the Most Beautiful Green Spaces in Moscow

Home to more parks than any other city in Russia , Moscow offers a cornucopia of choice when it comes to green spaces. From innovative wild urbanism to 18th-century royal estates, here are the best places to escape from the city buzz in Russia’s capital.

Spread over a territory of almost 300 acres, Gorky Park is Moscow’s most popular green space. Opened in 1928, it was designed as ‘a city inside a city’ with its own telegraph, police unit and a doctor’s office. Some 90 years later, Gorky Park offers everything from segway rides to an open-air movie theatre, through to illuminating lectures and fantastic dining spots.

9 Krimsky Val, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 995 00 20

As the name implies, Muzeon is perfect for art lovers. The park plays host to art fairs, exhibitions, music festivals and video performances. But even if you don’t care for art, Muzeon has a lot to offer: from an elegant boardwalk to hip coffee shops to an in-ground fountain, where you can actually cool off in summer.

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2 Krimsky Val, Moscow, Russia , +7 985 382 27 32

Hermitage Garden

Opened in 1894, the Hermitage garden is a lovely compact park, nestled between high rise buildings in Moscow center. Home to theaters New Opera, Hermitage and Sphera, the garden is predictably crowded, with theatre-goers along with office workers from the business centres in Tverskaya – all flock here for a green respite.

3 Karetnyy Ryad, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 699 04 32

Sokolniki Park

An open-air cinema, a rope course, amusement park, bike rentals and more – Sokolniki is 1,275 acres of fun. In winter the whole park turns into one of Moscow’s most famous skating rinks. Sokolniki gradually blends into Losiny Ostrov National Park – the world’s third largest forest in a city.

1 Sokol’nicheskiy Val, bld. 1, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 393 92 22

Izmailovsky Park

Moscow’s biggest park, Izmailovsky stretches for almost 3,800 acres. Particularly favored by hikers and cyclists, the forest-like park is a popular family spot, equipped with a ferris wheel, outdoor gyms and all kinds of places to eat.

7 Alleya Bol’shogo Kruga, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 166 61 19

Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno estate is a perfectly reconstructed specimen of 18th century architecture set amid a lush green forested area. The only park in Moscow that boasts a light and music fountain, Tsaritsyno draws crowds with spectacular night water shows.

1 Dol’skaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 725 72 87

Severnoye Tushino Park

Despite a rather remote location, this park is definitely worth a visit. A half-a-century old apple garden, serene views on Khimkinskoye reservoir and a dry-docked submarine housing a Museum of Submarine Navy will definitely make up for the ride from the city centre.

Ulitsa Svobody, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 640 73 55

Kolomenskoye

Kolomenskoye Park is not merely a tranquil green space, but a celebrated museum reserve, where nature and historically significant architecture blend together. Here you can see one of Moscow’s oldest churches Church of the Ascension and a former residence of the Tsar Aleksey Mikhailovich Romanov, the father of Peter the Great. It’s also perfect for romantic walks along the Moskva river.

39 Andropova Ave, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 782 89 17

In this park you’re guaranteed to encounter some ducks, woodpeckers, squirrels, hares and urban wildlife. The park is also famous for its beautiful boardwalk, open-air cinema, ropes course Panda Park, gallery of retro cars and a variety of places to eat.

22/1 Ulitsa Bol’shaya Filevskaya, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 145 45 05

The former estate of the Sheremetev family, Kuskovo is a fascinating piece of 18th-century Russia. Home to 20 unique architectural monuments, it is Moscow’s only historical park with a French formal garden, decorated with green walkways, marble statue and state-of-the art pavilions.

44/2 3-Ya Muzeynaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia

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Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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The Soviet Union’s Best Heart-Throbs and Pinups

Guides & Tips

A 48 hour guide to astrakhan, russia.

Zhenotdel: The Soviet Union's Feminist Movement

Unusual Facts About the Soviet Union

A Soviet Pilot Went Missing in Afghanistan and Was Found 30 Years Later

Food & Drink

The best halal restaurants in kazan.

Russian Last Names and Their Meanings

The Mystery Behind Russia's Buddhist "Miracle"

Incredible Photos From the Longest Bike Race in the World

See & Do

Russia's most remote holiday destinations.

Restaurants

The best halal restaurants in kaliningrad, winter sale offers on our trips, incredible savings.

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