trek fuel ex 8 2009

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

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

BikePerfect Verdict

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

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

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

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

Design and aesthetics

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

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

Specification

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

Performance

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

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

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

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

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

Tech Specs: Trek Fuel EX 8 XT

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

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

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

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

• Guy Kesteven Technical-Editor-at-Large

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Muddymoles mountain biking in the Surrey Hills and Mole Valley

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Trek Fuel EX 8 2009 review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Filed under Bikes , Reviews in March 2009

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dominic says:

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

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

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

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

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

Add a new comment , or reply to this comment

Posted on March 10, 2009 at 9:26 am

Buying a new bike is often a slightly nervous time

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

Posted on March 10, 2009 at 12:46 pm

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

Posted on March 10, 2009 at 4:48 pm

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

Posted on March 10, 2009 at 4:57 pm

Muddymoles says:

The most useless piece of plastic in mountain biking?

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

Posted on March 13, 2009 at 11:48 pm

brandon rubio says:

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

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

Posted on March 26, 2009 at 3:40 pm

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

Posted on March 26, 2009 at 10:16 pm

brandon says:

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

Posted on March 27, 2009 at 4:32 am

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

Let us know how you get on!

Posted on March 27, 2009 at 10:04 am

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

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

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

This website rules!!

Posted on March 27, 2009 at 9:25 pm

Geoff Mead says:

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

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

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

Hope someone can help!

Posted on April 25, 2009 at 4:40 pm

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

Posted on April 26, 2009 at 8:22 pm

Geoff says:

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

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

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

Maybe see you there!!

Posted on April 26, 2009 at 9:14 pm

Hi Tony and anyone else interested in the EX8’s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Any interest?

Posted on April 29, 2009 at 9:50 am

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

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

Posted on April 29, 2009 at 11:43 am

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

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

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

and singletrackworld

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

and help would help

Posted on April 29, 2009 at 2:40 pm

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

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

Posted on April 30, 2009 at 9:15 pm

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

Posted on April 30, 2009 at 9:43 pm

Trek Dan says:

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

Just becarful of sizes of the Fuels.

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

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

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

Posted on May 4, 2009 at 6:23 pm

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

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

Posted on May 4, 2009 at 8:39 pm

Yes, 25%+ on this years price.

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

Posted on May 5, 2009 at 7:26 am

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

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

Posted on May 7, 2009 at 12:44 pm

TrekDan says:

Has anyone experienced creaking on the rear pivot from new?

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

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

Could Trek have missed this during construction?

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

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

Posted on May 7, 2009 at 1:06 pm

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

Posted on May 7, 2009 at 3:20 pm

Richard Bromley says:

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

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

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

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

But well pleased with bike !!!

Posted on May 7, 2009 at 4:28 pm

Peter Capparelli says:

Hi, all fellow bike riders!

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

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

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

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

Pete, Harpenden

Posted on May 14, 2009 at 4:15 pm

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

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

Posted on May 14, 2009 at 10:54 pm

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

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

Thanks for your help.

Posted on May 24, 2009 at 11:28 am

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

Posted on May 24, 2009 at 8:59 pm

2010 Trek Fuel EX 8 review

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

Posted on September 8, 2009 at 12:19 am

Ahhh! chainsuck!!!

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

Posted on January 12, 2010 at 12:03 am

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Trek Fuel EX 9.8

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

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

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

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

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

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

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

The 2009 Trek Fuel EX 9.8 has 26" wheels.

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

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More carbon and new shocks for 2009 Fuel EX

Trek Bicycles unveiled the 2009 version of its Fuel EX line of trail mountain bikes in Durango,...

Tech feature: Trek 2009 MTB introduction, July 23, 2008

Trek Bicycles unveiled the 2009 version of its Fuel EX line of trail mountain bikes in Durango, Colorado, with an all-new full-carbon bike headlining a revamped range that Trek says is lighter and stiffer than its predecessors. Trek mountain bike product manager John Riley explained that the new carbon bike sprung from an effort to meld the stiffness of previous aluminum Fuel EXes with the light weight of the 2008 carbon bike - and to beat the weight of previous versions.

Aimed at general mountain biking and in particular endurance racing, the top-of-the-line 2009 Fuel EX 9.9 has a claimed weight of 10.66kg (23.5lb), on a 2.2kg (4.96lb) frame (with shock).

Several new technologies have helped get the bike under 24lb such as the 'net moulding' technique borrowed from the new Madone that directly integrates bearing seats for the suspension pivots and 95mm-wide BB95 bottom bracket shell.

Net moulding saves weight by eliminating aluminium hard points but the BB95 design also allows for a larger down tube, stiffening the frame against lateral and torsional flex. At the front end, Trek's E2 head tube with 1 1/2in lower bearing also provides more space for a big down tube. The practical upshot is a 28 percent stiffer frame on Trek's axle to axle test, Riley said.

Top-end Fuels also get an OCLV moulded carbon link instead of the previous Fuel's magnesium unit which saves 35g. The total upshot is that the 2008 carbon frame weighed 2450g; the 2009 is down to 2,238g.

New shocks tweak the ride

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But Trek hasn't just gone only for the weight-weenie vote. The company's ongoing cooperation with shock maker Fox has led to a custom-tuned version of Fox's new XV rear can to improve the suspension performance.

The special edition shock has a less progressive curve in the latter half of its travel, and a wider range of rebound damping so it works for a wider range of riders.

The recent development of Trek's suspension bikes has been driven by Jose Gonzalez and Greg Buhl in the development office Trek opened a while ago in Santa Clarita, California.

That's been a big step forward for Trek as the wide variety of trails within an hour and a half of base means Buhl, Gonzalez and their test riders can put the bikes through their paces far more thoroughly than they could in rural but rather flat Wisconsin.

On the trail

First ride impressions of the Fuel EX were a bit lukewarm. But the next day I switched from a 17.5in frame to an 18.5in and had Jared Connell of Fox Racing Shox carefully tune the set up for me, most importantly increasing the sag from 25 to 30 percent.

The result was a revelation as the bike became far better coupled to the trail and more comfortable without losing any of the accuracy that comes from the frame's impressive lateral and torsional rigidity.

Durango's Hermosa Creek Trail is mostly downhill, but it's shallow enough that you're pedaling a lot. Also, while it's not overly rocky it's twisty enough that you have to pay constant attention., The Fuel EX was a perfect partner as I barreled along, responding calmly and accurately to changes of speed and direction and getting me out of trouble more times than I can remember as I went into corners and off-cambers a bit too hot. Of course, if its handling and suspension weren't so good, I would never have been in high-speed trouble in the first place, but that's the fun factor of this bike.

The first Fuel EX I rode had a slight tendency to wag its head on climbs. Nothing you couldn't live with, but slightly annoying in a bike that otherwise surged uphill with distinct enthusiasm. Whether it was the better suspension tune allowing the fork to sit a little deeper in its range or the longer top tube of the 18.5in frame, the second bike I rode was perfectly mannered on the uphills.

It ploughed up and over obstacles and was completely unfazed when I stood and thrashed as clumsily as possible to sprint past Mountain Biking UK test editor Steve Worland on one of the last short pitches. The control and calm of the Fox-powered suspension is deeply flattering.

Trek and Fox have crafted a superb trail bike in the 2009 Fuel EX. It's well-mannered and controlled without being dull and inspires you to push as hard as possible in twisty singletrack and wide-open trails alike. Barring very steep and/or overly rocky terrain, our early indications suggest this will make an excellent one-bike-fits-all machine that will suit the endurance racer or all-day rider alike.

Next up: Trek's all-new Top Fuel cross-country racer

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• Trek Fuel EX 8 2009

154cm - 169cm

166cm - 180cm

176cm - 188cm

177cm - 189cm

186cm - 196cm

Bike summary

Bike components.

Alpha Red Aluminum w/ABP, Full Floater, magnesium EVO Link, oversized bearings, 120mm travel

Rear Derailleur

Shimano Deore XT "Shadow"

Front Derailleur

Shimano SLX SL

Shift Levers

SRAM PG970 11-32, 9 speed

Shimano SLX M660 44/32/22

CrankBrothers Custom Candy C

Bontrager Rhythm wheel system, 28mm, tubeless ready

Bontrager Jones XR w/Kevlar bead, 26x2.2/2.25"; 127 tpi

Avid Juicy 5, hydraulic disc; 185mm rotors (160mm rear rotor on 15.5, 17.5, 18.5")

Bontrager Race Lite, 7 degree, 31.8mm

Bontrager Race, 40mm rise, 31.8mm

VP-A58ACT-TK AHS semi-cartridge

Bontrager Race w/hollow Cro-Moly rails

Bontrager Race, 5mm offset

Bike geometry

Model overview.

Fuel EX 8 completes the Trek Fuel model. Trek launched 277 bikes of this model so far. Check out the entire range from 2009 of this model, by clicking this link .

When cycling always take safety very seriously. Wear a helmet, obey the traffic rules and wear hi-vis clothes. In short, take care of yourself so others can take care of you.

Average price for Trail bikes

If you want to purchase a solid Trail bike, it is important to know that the average cost is 2762 $ . However, this doesn’t mean that if you spend less money on a Trail bike, you couldn’t get a decent one. As a general rule of thumb, you should always read reviews about the bike and its components before buying it to ensure you don’t pay too much.

Fuel EX 8 components

Rear shocks give you increased comfort, control, and traction, which is important when cornering or braking. This allows you to ride faster on bumpy roads. To sum up, always consider getting a bike that has a rear shock as well.

Wheels size

As for the wheels, Trek Fuel EX 8 2009, has a 26″ aluminum model. Being a little smaller, these wheels will fit both small and tall riders. However, they are less forgiving when riding over obstacles such as bumps and roots.

We ride faster and faster, so a good braking system is essential on a bike nowadays. The Fuel EX 8 comes with Hydraulic Disc brakes. These kinds of brakes are among the most popular models used on bikes. To sum up, these are ideal for anyone.

This bike is available in 5 sizes . They vary from 154 cm – 196 cm (5.05 ft – 6.43 ft) . In conclusion, it won’t take much to find one that’s right for you.

Trek Fuel models from 2025

Trek fuel models from 2024, trek fuel models from 2023, trek fuel models from 2022, trek fuel models from 2021, trek fuel models from 2020, trek fuel models from 2019, trek fuel models from 2018, trek fuel models from 2017, trek fuel models from 2016, trek fuel models from 2015, trek fuel models from 2014, trek fuel models from 2013, trek fuel models from 2012, trek fuel models from 2011, trek fuel models from 2010, trek fuel models from 2009, trek fuel models from 2008, trek fuel models from 2007, trek fuel models from 2006, trek fuel models from 2005, trek fuel models from 2004, trek fuel models from 2003.

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• Rider Notes

2009 Trek Fuel EX 9.8

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

For This Bike

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

Fuel EX 9.8

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6'1" – 6'6"

🐐 Estimated

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

Jul 2010 · MBA Action

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

Read Review

Jan 2009 · Guy Kesteven

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

Jun 2007 · Matt Pacocha

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

Last updated June 29 Not listed for 2,477 days

• Fuel EX 8 29