trek superfly vs x caliber

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Trek Superfly 5 vs Trek X-caliber 2013

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• Colors Trek Black/Trek White
• Frame Alpha Platinum Aluminum, butted & hydroformed tubing, E2 tapered head tube, internal cable routing, press fit BB, balanced post mount, Closed Convert dropouts, G2 Geometry
• Front suspension RockShox Recon Silver w/Solo Air spring, rebound, TurnKey lockout, custom G2 Geometry w/51mm offset, 100mm travel
• Sizes 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21.5, 23"
• Wheels Shimano M435 center lock hubs w/Bontrager AT-850 32-hole double-walled rim
• Tires Bontrager XR1 Expert, aramid bead, 29x2.20"
• Shifters Shimano Deore, 10 speed
• Front derailleur Shimano Deore
• Rear derailleur Shimano Deore XT Shadow
• Crank Shimano M622, 40/30/22
• Cassette Shimano HG62 11-36, 10 speed
• Saddle Bontrager Evoke 1.5
• Seatpost Bontrager SSR, 27.2mm, 12mm offset
• Handlebar Bontrager Low Riser, 31.8mm, 5mm rise
• Stem Bontrager Race Lite, 31.8mm, 7 degree
• Headset FSA IS-2, E2, sealed cartridge bearing
• Brakeset Shimano M445 hydraulic disc
• Grips Bontrager Race
• Colors Trek Black/Viper Red
• Frame Alpha Gold Aluminum, butted & hydroformed tubing, G2 Geometry
• Front suspension RockShox Reba RL 29 w/Solo Air, Motion Control remote lockout, rebound, custom G2 Geometry w/51mm offset, 100mm travel
• Sizes 15.5, 17.5, 19, 21, 23"
• Wheels Bontrager sealed cartridge bearing, alloy axle front hub; Bontrager sealed cartridge bearing, alloy axle rear hub w/Bontrager Mustang 32-hole Tubeless Ready disc rims
• Tires Bontrager 29-1 Expert, 29x2.20"
• Shifters SRAM X7, 10 speed
• Rear derailleur SRAM X7
• Crank SRAM S1000, 44/33/22
• Saddle Bontrager Evoke 2, chromoly rails
• Handlebar Bontrager Low Riser, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 9 degree sweep
• Headset 1-1/8" threadless, semi-integrated, semi-cartridge bearings
• Brakeset Avid Elixir 1 hydraulic disc brakes

If you can stretch it Id go with the Superfly 6. You get the new frame with a better fork. Frame Trek Alpha Platinum aluminum w/Gary Fisher G2 geometry Fork RockShox Reba RL Solo Air, 100mm-travel Rims/Wheels Bontrager Mustang Hubs Bontrager Tires Bontrager XR1 Expert, 29 x 2.2 Crankset SRAM S1010 Chainrings 36/22 Front Derailleur SRAM X7 Rear Derailleur SRAM X9 Type 2 Rear Cogs Shimano, 10-speed: 11-36 Shifters SRAM X7 Handlebars Bontrager Low Riser Tape/Grips Bontrager Race Stem Bontrager Race Lite Brake Levers Shimano Brakes Shimano M445 Disc Saddle Bontrager Evoke 2 Seatpost Bontrager  

My budget was initially $1000 now at $1500 need to cap it. The superfly 6 would be good cannot go further. Looked for Superfly 5 reviews cannot find, but good things on the 2013 X-Caliber and can get it for about $1300 now for it seems discontinued.  

I would say Superfly, for the new geo. Here is a review of the SF8-- I'm a fan of the carbon frame version as an especially exceptional bike, which I have on order.  

Interesting review, a $2400 bike is entry level beginner bike lolest! Wondering if better frame with lesser Recon Silver Fork makes up for not having the Reba in my riding conditions. Other components easily upgradable on the Superfly 5.  

Been shopping around and gotten a 2013 Stache 7 on offer at 1300 which I think is a steal. Funny enough its interesting the Stache is ligher than the Superfly 5 yet the Stache has a more Bomb proof build.  

Settled on the Stache, because I got more bike for the cash, future proof tech, more bomb proof when things get rough, the extra 20mm on the fork plus that color is just wow! Not having the Reba was not a deal breaker and anyway the Stache came as an after thought but very happy I stumbled on it.  

Attachments

Very stable solid bike that you can throw around for fun riding.  

Made me a better rider for sure, sometimes I feel I am cheating compared to my 26er Giant XTC!  

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Results have arrived, trek mountain bike buyer’s guide - best trek mountain bikes (supercaliber, procaliber & more).

Whether you have World Cup XC aspirations or dream of epic downhills, Trek has a mountain bike for you. Here's the skinny on Supercaliber, Fuel, Fuel EX, Slash, and many other models.

Written by: Bruce Lin

Published on: Feb 25, 2022

Posted in: Guides

Trek’s wide range of mountain bikes covers everything from ultra-lightweight XC hardtails to downhill and enduro trail slashers. But how do you know which Trek mountain bike is right for you?

This overview is your guide to all things Trek MTB. In addition to covering every model in the current Trek mountain bike catalog, we’ll decode Trek naming conventions and delve into Trek’s innovations in rear-shock technology.

[button] Shop Trek MTB [/button]

Trek XC bikes

Trek procaliber.

Wheel Size: 29” Suspension travel: 100mm front

The Procaliber is Trek’s carbon XC hardtail and its lightest mountain bike. It’s a pure cross-country race bike optimized for fast courses where maximum pedaling efficiency is essential for climbing and acceleration. It features a rear IsoSpeed decoupler that provides extra compliance over rough roots and rocks.

Who it’s for: XC riders who want the lightest, most efficient bike, or who ride less-technical terrain.

Trek X-Caliber

Wheel Size: 29” (27.5” for S) Suspension travel: 100mm front

The X-Caliber is Trek’s entry-level, aluminum XC hardtail. The lightweight aluminum frame provides lots of performance on fast courses without breaking the bank. It’s a great option for newer riders looking to get into XC racing.

Who it’s for: XC riders and racers looking for a budget hardtail.

[button] Shop Trek XC bikes [/button]

Trek Supercaliber

Wheel Size: 29” Suspension travel: 100mm front / 60mm rear

The Supercaliber is Trek’s lightest, most efficient, full-suspension XC bike. During development, Trek kept the Supercaliber under wraps (they literally hid the rear suspension during races) while Trek’s factory race team tested it at World Cups. The Supercaliber uses a unique IsoStrut suspension system with a frame-integrated shock. This provides 60mm of suspension travel, just enough to take the edge off bumps and harsh impacts while keeping the weight, stiffness, and efficiency close to the Procaliber hardtail. The Supercaliber is designed to be the perfect compromise between a hardtail and a 100mm full-suspension bike.

Who it’s for: XC riders looking for the lightest, most efficient full-suspension race bike available.

Trek Top Fuel

Wheel Size: 29” Suspension travel: 120mm front / 115mm rear

The Top Fuel is Trek’s full-suspension marathon XC bike. The previous generation Top Fuel was a pure XC race bike with 100mm of travel front and rear. In 2020, the travel was been increased to make it more capable on descents. The Top Fuel could be considered Trek’s “downcountry” bike, a cross-country bike that balances downhill performance and pedaling efficiency. It will hold its own in fast XC races, but it’s versatile enough for trail riders who enjoy big rides on technical terrain.

Who it’s for: Marathon XC racers and riders looking for a “downcountry” bike.

Trek trail bikes

Trek Fuel EX

Wheel Size: 29” (27.5” available for XS and S) Suspension travel: 140mm front / 130mm rear

The Fuel EX is Trek’s most popular mountain bike model, and for good reason. The latest generation of this all-rounder has been refined with more suspension travel and modern geometry to make it equally capable uphill and downhill. It’s designed to suit the majority of riders and the widest range of terrain. If you’re looking for a quiver killer bike that will feel comfortable, capable, and efficient enough for all types of riding, the Fuel EX is a top choice.

Who it’s for: Trail riders looking for one bike to handle everything from XC to technical downhill trails.

Trek Roscoe

Wheel Size: 27.5” plus Suspension travel: 120mm front (100mm on XS)

The Roscoe is Trek’s basic aluminum trail hardtail with 27.5” plus tires for traction and comfort. The robust aluminum frame and affordable component builds make it a great choice for newer riders building their confidence and skills on the trail.

Who it’s for: Trail riders looking for a fun, inexpensive, easy to maintain hardtail trail bike.

Trek Stache and Full Stache

Wheel Size: 29” plus Suspension travel: 120mm front / 130mm front and rear

Discontinued in 2021, the Stache and Full Stache were Trek’s 29-plus hardtail and full-suspension models, respectively. These extra-large wheels and tires enhance rollover, traction, and comfort. These models are loved by bikepackers who need to carry large amounts of gear and desire extra comfort for backcountry riding and multi-day journeys.

Who it’s for: Trail riders and bikepackers looking for a mountain bike that maximizes traction and comfort.

Trek Farley

Wheel Size: 27.5” Fat Suspension travel: 100mm front or Rigid

The Farley is Trek’s fat bike specializing in terrain like snow and sand which require the additional “float” and traction of 4-5” wide fat tires. The newest generation of Farley uses 27.5” diameter fat tires instead of traditional 26” fat tires. Trek is a believer that using a larger diameter tire offers better performance in all conditions.

Who it’s for: Riders riding snow and sand.

Trek enduro bikes

Trek Remedy

Wheel Size: 27.5” Suspension travel: 160mm front / 150mm rear

The Remedy is Trek’s playful 27.5” trail bike. Older Remedy models were available with 29” wheels, but with the latest generation, Trek has committed to making the Remedy its sole 27.5” full-suspension bike. An ample amount of suspension travel allows the Remedy to tackle tough and steep downhill terrain while smaller 27.5” wheels make it feel easier to maneuver and throw around. It will suit riders who jump and jib their way down trails and who prioritize style and fun over all-out speed.

Who it’s for: Trail riders looking for a capable and playful bike.

Wheel Size: 29” Suspension travel: 170mm front / 160mm rear

The Slash is Trek’s 29er enduro race bike. It provides the most suspension travel and slackest geometry short of Trek’s Session downhill bike. Available only with 29” wheels, it smooths out the gnarliest terrain and maximizes downhill speed. The Slash is used by Trek’s factory Enduro World Series race team and will suit riders looking for a competitive enduro race bike, or a bike that will enhance their confidence on steep and technical downhill trails.

Who it’s for: Enduro racers and riders looking for the most downhill capable bike that can still be pedaled uphill.

Trek MTB range

Trek has a huge selection of mountain bike models, and within every model, there is a wide range of builds to choose from. The hierarchy within models is described using letters and numbers that can be confusing to uninitiated buyers. Below is a guide to decoding Trek’s naming and numbering system.

[newsletter]

Trek mountain bike range

Trek mountain bike models use a number (e.g. Trek Fuel EX 9.9) to indicate the frame material and component build. Models with a 5 through 8 use aluminum frames, with 5 indicating entry-level builds and 8 indicating top-of-the-line aluminum builds.

Models with a 9 use carbon frames. To differentiate build levels within carbon models, Trek uses a decimal system that ranges from 9.5 to 9.9, with 9.5 indicating entry-level builds and 9.9 indicating top-of-the-line builds.

Higher numbered bikes cost more but are equipped with better components.

For example, a Fuel EX 9.9 ($9,499) has a top-of-the-line OCLV carbon frame, SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS drivetrain, Fox Factory suspension, and carbon wheels, stem, and handlebars. A Fuel EX 5 ($2,399) has a more budget-friendly aluminum frame, Shimano Deore drivetrain, entry-level RockShox and X-Fusion suspension, and alloy wheels, stem, and handlebars. In between are several Fuel EX models that offer different frame materials and component builds so riders can pick the bike that fits their needs and budget.

Trek suspension technology

Trek has a long history of innovation, and it has introduced several ground-breaking technologies to the sport. Here is a list of technology and features that are only found on Trek mountain bikes.

Trek RE:aktiv and Thru Shaft shocks

In 2014, Trek worked with Penske Racing to develop RE:aktiv valve technology for its rear shocks. In RE:aktiv shocks, a spring-loaded valve inside the shock body provides increased low-speed compression for more pedaling support. When the shock's shaft speed increases on rough terrain, the valve opens up to quickly absorb impacts before closing again. RE:aktiv shocks are designed to reduce the need for lockouts and compression adjustment on full-suspension mountain bikes when pedaling on smooth terrain or climbing.

In 2018, Trek added Thru Shaft to its RE:aktiv shocks. Most mountain bike shocks are designed around an internal floating piston, or IFP. When a shock absorbs a bump, a damper shaft moves through the shock and displaces oil. This displaced oil needs to go somewhere, so it pushes against the IFP, compressing a gas charge behind the IFP.

The Thru Shaft design eliminates the need for an IFP by allowing the damper shaft to exit out the bottom of the shock. The damper no longer needs to compress an IFP to create space for displaced oil. This makes the shock more responsive and reduces friction. RE:aktiv Thru Shaft shocks are currently found on the Fuel EX, Remedy, and Slash.

Trek IsoStrut

IsoStrut is a minimal, frame-integrated shock designed to provide the comfort and control of rear suspension while maintaining weight, stiffness, and efficiency that rivals a hardtail. To save weight, instead of an ABP suspension pivot, there is flex built into the seat stays to provide a virtual pivot. In its current form, it is only found on the Supercaliber cross-country bike where it provides 60mm of suspension travel.

Trek Knock Block and Straight Shot down tubes

Most mountain bike frames have a curve in the down tube where it joins the head tube to prevent interference with the fork crown. Trek’s Straight Shot down tubes, however, are straight from the head tube to the bottom bracket to increase frame stiffness and strength. This means the fork crown might hit the down tube if it spins around during a crash.

The Knock Block system prevents this with a chip in the top tube that interacts with a keyed stem, spacers, and headset top cover. The Knock Block stops the handlebars and fork from spinning, preventing the fork crown from striking the down tube. There's also a molded guard on the down tube as a redundant measure. As an added bonus, Knock Block also prevents brake and shift levers from scratching or damaging the top tube.

Knock Block can be found on all of Trek’s carbon mountain bike models and the aluminum versions of the Fuel EX, Remedy, and Slash.

Hopefully this guide to Trek mountain bikes puts you in a better place to select the best Trek MTB to suit you riding needs (and also the best build for your price range). If you’re still having trouble deciding, reach out to a TPC Ride Guide at (866) 401-9636 who can better help you understand the pros and cons, and ultimately find the right bike for you. Do you already have one of these Treks? Let us (and other cyclists) know in the comments what you love about your Trek MTB.

What do you ride? Which Trek bike is your favorite? What questions do you have? Let us know in the comments!

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Which Trek mountain bike is right for you?

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Get to know your Remedy from your Fuel

We have a look over the 2018 range of Trek mountain bikes to see who suits what in a range featuring the Fuel EX, Remedy, Marlin and Powerfly models.

>>> All our recent Trek mountain bike reviews

Getting to grips with 2018 Trek mountain bikes

If you pop over to Trek’s website and click on ‘mountain bikes’ more than 120 bikes appear in front of you. It’s rather daunting. Choice is good but can be bewildering. So we’ve boiled Trek’s MTB range down to the basics to get you started.

>>> Trek road bikes: which model is right for you?

What type of bike do you want?

We think it’s best to split the whole range into three categories and then go from there: hardtail , full suspension and electric .

What type of riding will you be doing?

Once you’ve chosen one of the three categories you can refine it to the type of riding you want to do: cross-country, trail or downhill.

With those two category types chosen you’ll be left with a much smaller pool of Trek models to consider.

We’re going to assume that you already know the type of mountain bike you want. We’re not going to go into any debates or theorising (hardtail vs full suspension, 27.5 vs 29 , Plus vs Fat etc etc).

Trek hardtails

There are five hardtail models in Trek’s range: Marlin, X-Caliber, Roscoe, Procaliber and Stache.

Trek use their own proprietary frame materials. Their aluminium stuff is called Alpha. Their carbon stuff is called OCLV.

Some of their high end hardtails have the ‘IsoSpeed Decoupler’ configuration where the seat tube is designed to flex for compliance.

The Trek Marlin is an entry level cross-country focussed hardtail ranging from £370 up to £550. Thee are four models in total (the Marlin 4, 5, 6 and 7). The frame is Trek’s ‘Silver Alpha’ aluminium.

The Trek X-Caliber cross-country range starts from £650 and tops out at £1,150. The frame is Trek’s ‘Gold Alpha’ aluminium. The frames have internal routing for stealth dropper seatposts. The components are of a higher quality than the Marlins.

The Trek Roscoe range of Plus-tyred trail hardtails running from £800 to £ 1,250. The frame has internal routing for dropper posts and is made from Trek’s ‘Alpha Gold’ aluminium.

The £1,300 to £6,500(!) Trek Procaliber cross-country race bike range can look a a bit confusing; there are aluminium Procalibers, OCLV carbon Procalibers and Super Light OCLV Procalibers. Although the frame material varies the intent of Procalibers is the same: xc racing. The geometry remains the same. All Procalibers have the ‘IsoSpeed Decoupler’ feature of deliberate flex.

The Trek Stache bikes are rather unique in that they are 29er Plus bikes. They roll on some seriously large rubber! Monster trucking hardtails. Price: £1,300 to £3,500.

Trek full suspension bikes

There are five Trek full susser types: Fuel EX, Remedy, Top Fuel, Slash and Session.

All Trek full sus bikes use a version of the ‘ABP’ suspension design. ABP stands for Active Braking Pivot. The rear wheel axle is also the rear pivot. The idea is to prevent the suspension from locking up during rear braking.

Fuel EX, Remedy and Top Fuel bikes also have RE:aktiv rear shock damping. This damping design claims to ‘know’ which forces are coming from the pedals/rider and which forces are coming from the trail, and it reacts accordingly.

The Trek Fuel EX 130mm travel, full sus, all-rounder, trail bikes come as either 29er or as 27.5 Plus. They can be run with either wheel size but are initially purchased with one or the other. Starting from £1,800 for aluminium versions they top out at £6,500 for the top end carbon version.

>>> Trek Fuel EX Plus 9.8 27.5 (2017) review

The Trek Remedy is the 150mm travel trail-cum-enduro bike. Prices range from £2,300 to £6,000. There are aluminium Remedy models and carbon fibre Remedy models. For 2018 they are all 27.5in wheel.

The Trek Top Fuel bikes are full suspension XC race machines. 100mm of travel at either end. Begins with the aluminium Top Fuel 8 for £2,400 and goes up to the £7,800 carbon Top Fuel 9.9 RSL.

>>> Trek Top Fuel 9 (2017) review

2018 Trek Slash

The 160mm travel enduro racing Trek Slash range is all 29in wheels and carbon only for 2018. It’s a bold move by Trek but one that makes the Slash arguably the most defined model in their range.

>>> Trek Slash 9.9 29 RSL (2017) review

The Trek Session is the downhill bike. Aluminium or carbon. And now available as a frameset as a 29er with 190mm of travel. Complete build Sessions are all 27.5in wheel and deliver 210mm of rear travel.

Trek electric mountain bikes

There are three electric mountain bike types: Powerfly, Powerfly FS and Powerfly LT Plus.

The Trek Powerfly hardtails start at £2,300 and go up to £3,300. Aluminium frames with 100mm travel forks up front. The motors come from Bosch. There is also a £4,200 Powerfly Plus with 2.8in tyres.

On the Trek Powerfly FS bikes the ‘FS’ stands for Full Suspension, 130mm of suspension to be precise. The Powerfly FS bikes are aimed at cross-country riding with a bit of rougher stuff every now and then. All but the entry level £3,500 Powerfly 5 FS come with Plus tyres.

Trek Powerfly Launch in Verbier, Switzerland

The Trek Powerfly LT Plus models have more travel (150mm) and fatter tyres (2.8in Plus tyres). These e-bikes are up for a bit more aggro riding and technical trails. Prices: £4,200 to £5,250.

>> Trek Powerfly 9 LT (2018) first ride

Trek Women’s mountain bikes

Even as stalwarts of the whole Women’s Specific Design thang, Trek (along with most other bike brands) are now seemingly moving away from design theories that assume that women’s body proportions are different to men’s.

Bikes fit humans, not genders. Rider height is the only thing you should really be factoring in when choosing a bike. It really is only saddles that need to be a bit different to men’s.

It’s fine to opt for a supposedly ‘men’s’ Trek model if it fits your height. Get the saddle swapped out for a ladies saddle at time of purchase. Sorted.

Having said that, if you want a Women’s bike because you prefer the different colourway and decals, fair enough.

• Trek Skye – entry level cross-country hardtails
• Trek X-Caliber Women’s –  lighter and fancier cross-country hardtails
• Trek Roscoe Women’s – Plus tyred trail hardtail
• Trek Procaliber Women’s – XC racing hardtail
• Trek Fuel EX Women’s – 130mm travel full suspension all-rounder
• Trek Remedy Women’s – 150mm trail/enduro full susser
• Trek Powerfly Women’s – entry level e-bike hardtail
• Top Fuel Women’s – XC racing 100mm travel full suspension

Race Shop Limited models

You may spot some Trek mountain bikes with ‘Race Shop Limited’ (or ‘RSL’) in their model name. These are essentially super high spec models. Often limited edition. And sometimes with slightly tweaked designs (a bit more travel, slacker geometry etc etc).

Mark Webber’s Top Fuel Project One

Trek’s Project One

This is Trek’s custom paint and decals option. Yep, if you have the funds and are prepared to wait a bit for your bike, then you can get a Trek in pretty much any colour scheme you want.

Be warned: you can waste hours (days!) tinklering away with the online Project One dream bike builder.

It’s only available on a few mountain bike models: Top Fuel, Fuel EX and Procaliber.

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Trek Supercaliber Review — Podium-Winning XC Race Bike

Maddie Munro showing off her skills on a Trek Supercaliber.

The Trek Supercaliber is an XC race bike designed to bridge the gap between hardtails and full-suspension MTBs.

The Supercaliber utilizes innovative Trek Bikes’ IsoStrut suspension technology and industry-leading components to maximize performance and gain an advantage over the competition.

Snappy XC geometry, fast-rolling tires, premium carbon fiber, and low-travel suspension make this bike lightning fast and efficient.

With seven builds in the series, XC riders with big ambitions can choose the Supercaliber that fits their needs and budget. 

This Trek Supercaliber review will outline the series’ standout characteristics, discuss each model in detail, and finish with our verdict on who should choose this bike. 

A race-ready cross-country mountain bike designed for speed and efficiency.

• Exceptionally efficient
• Agile and snappy handling
• Ultra-lightweight for a full-suspension bike
• Plenty of small bump sensitivity
• No dropper post
• Narrow handlebars

Main Trek Supercaliber Specs

• Frame: Carbon OCLV
• Wheel size: 29″
• Tires: 2.2″
• Front travel: 100mm (120mm compatibility)
• Rear travel: 60mm 
• Drivetrain:  12-speed
• Brake rotors: 180mm (f), 160mm (r)
• Weight: 21.6 – 27lbs

Trek Supercaliber Overview

The Trek Supercaliber is a specialist cross-country bike for riders who want to maximize speed and climbing efficiency. This bike will help you break all your personal bests on your local XC trail but won’t provide much comfort on rough terrain with its narrow tires, rigid seatpost, and 60mm of rear suspension. 

Carbon OCLV Frame

Trek’s frames are renowned for their innovative design features and world-class ride characteristics fit for champions. Each Supercaliber uses the same patented OCLV Mountain carbon frame.

Trek utilizes techniques borrowed from the aerospace industry to deliver one of the world’s strongest and most durable carbon bike frames , even after impact. 

The Supercaliber has a Straight Shot down tube to enhance the responsiveness of the frame and reduce weight. Another unique feature is the Knock Block headset design that prevents the fork crown and handlebars from spinning too far in a fall, which often damages the frame. 

Trek also designed the Supercaliber frame with enough space to carry two water bottles, a non-negotiable for demanding XC racing. Finally, Trek backs each frame with a limited lifetime warranty. 

XC Geometry 

The Trek Supercaliber geometry plays a big role in its ride characteristics. Its straightforward, compact design delivers a sharp and efficient ride quality . 

Trek Supercaliber has a straightforward, modern and compact geometry with a Straight Shot downtube that reduces weight and improves handling.

It has a steep 69-degree head angle and a relatively slack seat angle of 74 degrees. A short stem (70mm), a tight rear center of 430mm, and a compact wheelbase of 1079 to 1172mm keep the Supercaliber as agile as possible. 

This geometry means the Supercaliber can change direction quickly and with minimal effort, allowing easy navigation of tight switchbacks and picking the fastest line. The low bottom bracket drop of 53mm also helps balance the sharp steering with extra stability. 

Trek IsoStrut Suspension

Trek’s IsoStrut frame-integrated rear suspension is a bespoke system designed in partnership with Fox. The Supercaliber comes with a Float Factory or Float Performance shock integrated into the IsoStrut, depending on the build. 

Trek’s IsoStrut technology provides the Supercaliber with firm and precise suspension that help the bike thrive on XC race tracks.

Each Supercaliber has just 60mm of rear travel, which aligns with Trek’s minimalist thinking. The IsoStrut is a structural element of the bike , eliminating the need for extra parts and unnecessary weight. The shock is enclosed in a stanchion that protects it from damage and reduces lateral frame flex. 

The IsoStrut contributes to a more efficient, durable, and sleek bike. In addition, by utilizing the remote lockout, you essentially turn the Supercaliber into a hardtail. 

You can tune the spring rate and adjust the rebound as you would on a standard shock. The only downside is that it requires more effort to maintain as you must disassemble the bike to service it.

Trek Supercaliber Builds

There are four models available in 2023. The new 9.6 and 9.7 Trek Supercaliber 2023 builds and the 2023 versions of the 9.9 and 9.8. 

All four models have a carbon fiber frame and components from leading manufacturers like Shimano, SRAM, Maxxis, Fox, RockShox, and Trek’s Bontrager. The Trek Supercaliber price varies from mid-range to elite-level. 

Trek Supercaliber 9.6 2023

MRSP: $4,300

The Trek Supercaliber 2023 9.6 is the most affordable model. Of course, this version isn’t cheap but gives ambitious cross-country racers a more achievable price. 

The 9.6 comes with the same premium OCLV Carbon frame and IsoStrut suspension as the top models. However, it has a Fox Float Performance DPS shock paired with a RockShox Recon Gold RL fork.

This version is the only one with alloy wheels; Bontrager’s Comp 23s. These come wrapped in XR2 Team Issue tires. The rest of the build kit on the Supercaliber 9.6 is aluminum alloy, excluding the steel-rail Bontrager Arvada saddle. 

Finally, this build has a Shimano Deore/SLX groupset with a 10-51t cassette and MT4100 brakes. 

Trek Supercaliber 9.7 2023

MRSP: $5,100

The Trek Supercaliber 9.7 is another 2023 edition of the bike. It’s built with mid-range components for more accessibility to the general market but gets a few notable upgrades from the entry-level 9.6.

The most significant improvement is the step up to SLX/XT drivetrain components with MT501 brakes. Additionally, the 9.7 gets Bontrager Kovee Elite 30 carbon fiber wheels.

Other notable changes include an E*thirteen alloy crankset, a Bontrager P3 Verse Elite stainless steel saddle, and vibration-absorbing ESI chunky grips. All of these changes reduce weight by 1.6lbs to 25.41lbs. 

Trek Supercaliber 9.8

MRSP: from $6.550

The Trek Supercaliber 9.8 is the more affordable of the two pro-level models. The 9.8 is available in three builds , SRAM GX, GX AXS, and Shimano XT, with $1,000 separating them. 

The 9.8 gets several upgrades on the 9.7, including Kovee Pro 30 wheels and a carbon seatpost, stem, and handlebars. Additionally, the fork steps up to a Fox Performance 32 Step-Cast or a RockShox SID SL on the electronic SRAM build. 

The other major change is the improved groupset. Each 9.8 has a carbon crankset, and the SRAM models come with 10-52t cassettes. The 9.8 models are roughly 2.5lbs lighter than the 9.7. 

Trek Supercaliber 9.9

MRSP: $9,550 – $11,500

The Trek Supercaliber 9.9 is the most advanced model and comes from their latest lineup. It comes in two builds, SRAM XX1 AXS and Shimano XTR, with almost $2,000 separating them. 

Both Supercaliber 9.9s get Fox Float Factory shocks. In addition, the XTR has a Factory 32 Step-Cast Float fork, and the top model gets a RockShox SID SL Ultimate. 

The wheels are Bontrager’s highest grade Kovee XXX carbon wrapped in XR1 Team Issue tires. Unusually, the XTR is the only version with a dropper post, a Fox Transfer SL 100mm. 

Finally, the Trek Supercaliber 9.8 XX1 AXS has SRAM Level Ultimate brakes. Both weigh approximately 21.5lbs. 

How Does the Trek Supercaliber Perform on the Trails?

The Trek Supercaliber is a high-performance machine built for speed. So it’s no surprise that this bike is used by world-class cross-country athletes , including Jolanda Neff, in her 2021 Olympic XCO win. 

Where Does the Trek Supercaliber Thrive?

Trek Supercaliber weight and pedaling efficiency are its two standout characteristics. With an unusually light build for one of the best full-suspension bikes , you will have a distinct advantage over your competitors in a race environment. 

This efficiency comes from the stiff and lightweight OCLV carbon fiber frame with IsoStrut suspension. IsoStrut ensures you get maximum power from each pedal stroke for an incredibly snappy feel when you put the power down.

This bike is so efficient that the remote suspension lockout is only really beneficial for sprint efforts. The racey geometry of the Supercaliber means it is agile and responsive for cross-country-style trails, allowing you to maneuver tight situations and pick the smoothest line. 

Although it doesn’t ride like traditional 100mm XC bikes , it’s not far off. The 60mm travel in the rear provides just enough extra traction and comfort when you need it.

To get the best out of this bike, it helps to ride aggressively, attacking chunkier sections to avoid getting hung up. 

What Can Be Better?

There’s not much we would change about this bike. For the casual rider, the 60mm rear travel means this bike will quickly bottom out on big hits, meaning you’ve got to be more conservative on chunkier terrain. That said, this isn’t a bike for your typical rider. 

The one component that may be worth changing for some riders is the narrow 720mm handlebars. In addition, we’d like to see a dropper post to improve the bike’s overall capability. 

Trek Supercaliber Sizing

The Trek Supercaliber frameset is available in six sizes, S to XXL, with a rider height range from 5′ to 6’8″. 

• S – 5′ to 5’6″
• M – 5’3″ to 5’8″
• M/L – 5’5″ to 5’10”
• L – 5’10” to 6’2″
• XL – 6′ 1″ to 6’5″
• XXL – 6’5″ to 6’8″

This bike is a significant investment, so you’ll want to ensure it fits perfectly. If you fall between two frame sizes , visit a Trek dealer near you to test-ride the two models that might work. Alternatively, you can compare the Trek Supercaliber size chart and geometry to an XC bike you’ve ridden before. 

Bottom Line: Should You Buy a Trek Supercaliber

As we’ve seen, the Trek Supercaliber is a highly-specialized XC mountain bike, limiting its appeal to the broader market. 

Incredibly efficient suspension, a stiff, lightweight frame, agile geometry, and industry-leading components give this bike its ability on cross-country trails.

Jolanda Neff riding her Trek Supercaliber XC race bike to Olimpic victory.

This ability makes the Supercaliber an excellent choice for ambitious XC riders who want a bike to help them smash their PRs and win races. However, if you’re not obsessed with speed and just want a bike to handle a variety of trails and climb well, the Supercaliber mightn’t be for you. 

Add this premium race bike to your shortlist if you want pro-level performance and have the budget to match. 

Shop on TrekBikes.com

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About the Author

Jordan Grimes

10 thoughts on “ trek supercaliber review — podium-winning xc race bike ”.

Thanks so much for your assistance in my purchasing decision. Great article by the way!

You’re welcome, Edward! Have fun riding!

Thanks. Which SLR 2024 Supercaliber model would you recommend for an enthusiast who might race only once a year?

The lowest-priced SLR 9.8 XT Gen 2 should be plenty good!

I have a 2021 Trek Procaliber and love it. How would a 2024 Supercaliber compare to my Procaliber in shock absorption, handling, weight, etc.?

Hi Edward! To be honest, the two would feel very similar to ride, though the shock absorption and handling would be better on the 2024 model considering it has 10mm more travel and the carbon fiber technology is getting better and better in terms of weight and compliance. Other than that, they don’t differ all too much.

Thanks for your response. What would be a great alternative to the 2024 Supercaliber? How about the Specialized cross country bike? Or others?

Specialized Epic is a great alternative. At the moment, Specialized is running a massive discount, so you can get the full suspension Epic EVO for just $2,400 (down from $4,000), which is a pretty good deal (though stocks might be low). You could also consider the Specialized Chisel (Hardtail) or Canyon Lux, both are excellent choices.

Does the 2024 model now appeal to a broader base of non racers? Thanks.

I wouldn’t say so, Edward. The 2024 Trek Supercaliber is still an XC race bike—the cheapest model has a carbon frame and costs $4,300. Non-racers can get it, but it’s a commitment.

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XC Dream: Trek Supercaliber 9.8 Review

Modern XC racing is more technical than ever — with short, punchy climbs and technical, rock-strewn descents that would have once only been found on DH courses. For the smoothest courses, racers can opt for hardtails, but why choose a hardtail when you can get the Trek Supercaliber 9.8 and enjoy the best of both worlds?

2020 Trek Supercaliber 9.8 GX Features:

• OCLV Mountain Carbon frameset
• Fox Performance 32 Step-Cast 100mm fork
• IsoStrut integrated suspension with 60mm rear travel
• SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain (10-50t cassette)
• Truvativ Stylo carbon crankset (32t chainring)
• Shimano Deore XT M8100 hydraulic disc brakes
• Bontrager Kovee Elite 30 Carbon wheelset
• Bontrager XR2 Team Issue 2.20″ tires
• Bontrager Montrose Elite saddle
• Bontrager Pro OCLV Carbon 31.6 seatpost
• Bontrager Kovee Pro Carbon 720mm bars
• Weight: 23.9 lbs (Large, actual)
• MSRP: $5899

A well-sorted build kit

Cross-country racing has evolved and so have the bikes. While many top racers are still holding onto their hardtails for certain races, there’s no doubt that even a little bit of suspension increases comfort, traction and, in turn, overall speed. But, just how much suspension is needed for the ideal race bike? Trek engineers and athletes have settled on just 60mm on the Supercaliber and it’s delivered using their unique IsoStrut platform.

This inline shock is a Fox exclusive and is actually a structural part of the rear frame itself — delivering that travel with unsurpassed lateral stiffness and control. The behavior of the shock can be further tuned by inserting or removing volume spacers (larger for a firmer ride, smaller for a smoother ride). I left it in the default spacer throughout my tests, but did remove the shock from the mounts to check things out a little. I settled in at 155 psi. for my 170 lb. weight and riding style and felt it to be a good balance between suspension travel and efficiency.

The 2020 Supercaliber 9.8 build kit is pretty close to the 2021 Supercaliber 9.8 GX kit, but sees a $400 price increase (upgrades include: Kovee Pro wheels and full GX drivetrain with the new 52T rear cassette). So, if you can still find the 2020 model and save a few bucks, get on it now.

With most bike reviews, I will swap a few components out to see how they impact the ride. I’m a sucker for wider bars, so I thought I’d give a set of Bontrager Line Pro Carbon 35 (750×15 deg) bars a try. Yes, they are wider, but that added height really did the bike a disservice. I felt like even though it was a little more comfortable, handling suffered as a result. After a couple of rides, I swapped the stock bars back and was as happy as could be with how the Supercaliber rides and responds with the narrower bars (kinda crazy, I know).

And, it’s a completely personal preference, but I don’t like the ESI Chunky foam grips and swapped them out for a few different Ergon grips ( GE1 EVO Factory and GA3). That change alone was huge for me. If you like the ESI’s, more power to you, but don’t hesitate to cut those foam bits off for better comfort and ride feel.

I will add that the mixture of the SRAM GX Eagle shifter and Shimano XT brake levers was an odd pairing. The XT levers have a grip stopper built in that automatically spaces out the clamp and limits the placement of the shifter. I kept the shifter clamp inward of the brake clamp for best hand clearance, but it did make for a little extra reach to the shifters. I have zero complaints about how the XT brakes perform. They remain excellent stoppers with outstanding modulation, lever feel and power. Because of that, I’m grateful they were spec’d here, but just wished for a little more brake/shifter integration is all.

The full component spec really is stellar, with Bontrager OCLV Carbon bits galore. The 30mm wide Kovee Elite 30 wheels are particularly noteworthy. With a 30mm rim width, the Bontrager XR2 2.20 tires seem much wider and feature a more rounded profile that measures out to 2.27″. Running 20/21 psi. front/rear in a tubeless setup yielded the perfect balance of traction, comfort and speed. The exposed carbon seatpost length also adds a touch of shock absorption. Speaking of that, my backside has loved the Montrose Elite saddle and it easily allows me to slide fore/aft as needed throughout my rides.

Whiptastic fun on the trail

The day before I built up the Supercaliber, a friend posted a ride on Strava that had me intrigued. So, with only neighborhood laps under my belt, I set out to break this bike in on a new ride that I hadn’t fully stitched together before. In the end, that first ride was 17 miles and included 2100 ft of climbing with road climbs, chunky fire roads and lots of glorious singletrack. At the end of it, I knew my time with the Supercaliber was going to be memorable.

First off, let’s talk specifically about how the Trek Supercaliber 9.8 climbs and I’ll also add some thoughts on the lockout system. Over the years, I’ve tested many flavors of suspension lockouts. I’m always skeptical because they add complexity and are mostly unnecessary. And, over long distances on rough terrain, the smoother bike will always win. That being said, for specific purposes, a lockout can prove to be a huge advantage. In my testing, that advantage is really felt on standing sprints or short, technical climbs. This is critical for XC race bikes because that sprint to the finish could be the difference between first and fourth place. The lockout absolutely makes sense there. And, it’s also useful for those steep pitches where you might want to put the hammer down and pass someone. Outside of that, I’m all about leaving the suspension wide open.

To test the value of the lockout, I set out for a little head-to-head competition on one of my local climbs.  This is a 2.2 mile ascent with 600 ft of climbing and a bazillion switchbacks. It’s one of those climbs that just encourages you to push your limits every time. So, on June 13, 2020, I rode this climb with the lockout engaged the whole time, then on July 11, 2020, I rode that same climb and strategically used the lockout only when I felt it would be beneficial. The results were pretty clear. Not only was I more comfortable on the ride and fresher at the top with the suspension mostly open, I also maximized the sections where a lockout provided the most benefit.

As you can see, my climb times with the Supercaliber (top 1-3 slots; now the top 4 after another 16:52 ride) are lightyears faster than those on other bikes. Without question, the Supercaliber is a wicked-fast climber whether you choose to lock it out completely or just use the lockout strategically. As efficient as the IsoStrut suspension is, I say leave it open most of the time.

Something that I love about the Supercaliber is how much it eats uphill switchbacks for breakfast. I can carry egregious amounts of momentum uphill, through any of the myriad of switchbacks on the local trails. Every time, it just rips around them like that’s what it was born to do.

Now, after a long climb, it’s time to descend. On smooth, buffed singletrack, the Supercaliber is a blast to descend on. I can whip this bike around anything like nobody’s business. But, when the descents got overly steep or technical over long periods, I sorely missed having a dropper post and the suspension also felt a little outgunned. At the end of extended descents (~1000 ft), my 45-yr-old body was feeling pretty beat up. If long, technical descents are your thing, but you still want XC efficiency the Trek Top Fuel would be a better choice.

Near the end of the test period, I swapped out the stock fork for the new RockShox SID SL Ultimate. It plugs right into the lockout system and made a noticeable difference in terms of comfort and performance. That fork is available aboard the  Supercaliber 9.9 XX1 build for $9499.

Again, the Trek Supercaliber 9.8 isn’t built to slay your local downhill shuttle runs, so I’m perfectly okay with it being more go-kart than Ford Bronco. Where the Supercaliber shines is on ideal cross-country terrain — lots of quick ups and downs with some fast flats in between.  As you look at World Cup circuits, they are made of successive 100-300 ft ascents/descents that are ridden for less than two hours. That’s the ideal terrain for this bike. If you love lung-searing ascents and fast, frantic descents, the Supercaliber will be an awesome dance partner.

My backyard test loops are perfect for XC bike testing. These trails are used by the local NICA teams for training and the Supercaliber just eats them up.  Every ride turns into an epic battle to nab yet another Strava PR or outclimb a local e-Bike rider. (FYI… no e-Bike ever beat me, but I did have some serious competition on one particular ride .)

With only 60mm travel (55mm suspension with 5mm flex), you’d think it would be a harsh ride, but that’s absolutely not the case. Of course, I’d be lying to you if I said it felt like a Trek Remedy, however it’s a lot more supple than you might think. Case in point: it flies through rock gardens with surprising smoothness. I don’t know how to explain it, other than by using Muhammad Ali’s famous “floats like a butterfly; stings like a bee” saying. It really does float through rough terrain at speed and then hits the afterburners when you need it.

A few tweaks and niggles

As I’ve approached 300 miles aboard the Trek Supercaliber 9.8, I’ve got a few items that are worth mentioning. I’ll start with the IsoStrut suspension. This is about as proprietary as it gets and it requires skills to fix or even tweak. It has performed well overall at 115 psi. for my 170 lb. weight. But I have noticed a small “clunk” every once in awhile on washboard descents. I’ve tried to isolate it and I’ve also re-torqued everything to spec, but it just hasn’t gone away.  It’s also worth noting that the IsoStrut suspension is essentially a single-pivot design, so you will notice a little bit of brake-induced lockout on fast, choppy descents. It’s not terrible, but noticeable.

I also must mention the the tradeoff between lockout and dropper post. I’d take a dropper over a lockout any day because of the confidence it adds on descents. The lockout is great and has a valuable purpose for pure XC racing, but a dropper would be icing on the cake. As luck would have it, Bontrager makes a new dropper/lockout system called the DropLock Remote.

After getting the DropLock Remote installed, I’ve seen instant improvements in descending times and overall confidence. If you want to maximize both lockout and descending prowess, it’s definitely a worthwhile upgrade on the Supercaliber.

Fit: At 5’11”, with a 30″ saddle height I’ve been comfortably riding the large Supercaliber. I can stretch out in the cockpit and standover was never an issue.

• Maintains momentum uphill like it has a motor
• Feels as responsive and laterally-stiff as a hardtail (but without the rough ride)
• So fast, you’ll feel like the Trek Factory Racing team is cheering you on
• Rewards fitness with superpowers
• The lockout is a strategic weapon (like a nitro boost)
• Can’t complain one bit about the parts spec
• Those Kovee Elite 30 wheels are wide and fast
• All the beauty of a hardtail, without the harsh ride
• Pinpoint handling and responsiveness
• Incredibly floats through rough terrain
• Can hold two water bottle cages inside the front triangle
• You’ll notice a bit of brake-jack on fast, choppy descents
• Wished for a dropper post out the gate
• Clamping area of the XT brake levers don’t play nicely with SRAM shifters
• Small suspension “clunk” that I can’t pinpoint (I’m taking it to the Trek dealer and will post an update)

The Bottom Line: Trek Supercaliber 9.8 GX

Wow, wow, wow. Without question, I’m blown away after every ride aboard the Supercaliber. From day one until now (almost 300 miles later), it is an absolute gas rocking the local trails on this bike. Out of the box, I can’t imagine a better pure XC racer. It is responsive, light, nimble and blazingly-fast. Certainly, as other bikes arrive, I’m going to try my hardest to beat the PR’s I’ve set on this bike, but that will be a tall order.

Buy Now: Available at TrekBikes.com (2022 model is $6549)

If you are an ultra-fit XC racer who aims to outgun the competition or unseat every Strava PR you currently have, the Trek Supercaliber 9.8 should be your weapon of choice. It is an incredible chassis for out-and-out lung-searing performance. Every rider input is met with instant response (pedaling, body movement or steering input). Simply put, I am blown away on every ride and it just never gets old to smoke every climb in sight.

• Handling 10
• Climbing 10
• Descending 8
• Pedaling Efficiency 10
• Fun Factor 10

• X (Twitter)

A native of the Pacific Northwest, Jason quickly developed a love for the outdoors and a thing for mountains. That infatuation continues as he founded this site in 1999 -- sharing his love of road biking, mountain biking, trail running and skiing. With extreme attention to detail, he has been a technical product manager for top 10 web properties, eCommerce businesses and SaaS companies for 20+ years. The combination of outdoor experience and technical savvy gives him a unique perspective that is channeled into every gear review. Utah's Wasatch Mountains are his playground. He rigorously tests every product and usually uses them beyond their intended purpose -- just for the sake of testing. (Note: Jason receives sample products in exchange for authentic reviews. He is not paid, nor influenced to share anything other than his honest opinions.)

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Great review! Thank you for it! I bought this bike a few days ago. I hope I will have a blast with it. I live in the Netherlands so no long technicl descents for me. We do have a lot of single track flowy trails.

You’ll love it! It’s so fast on that kind of terrain!

Already running this rig for few weeks. What a monster of a bike! Acceleration, handling en the eagerness! Lov it!

Great review!

It is about as zippy as it gets. You step on it and it just goes. Glad you’re liking it!

What would be a good alternative competitor to this bike?

There are lots of XC race bikes out there, but none as unique as this one. Most have more travel, but I’d say the Santa Cruz Blur or Canyon Lux are both great options to the Supercaliber.

Excellent review, thanks. I am planning on buying a used 9.8 GX and this review sealed the deal! I have tested this bike and agree with all of your pointers. I live in Auburn California and the trails will be similar to what you have described.

What is your view Supercaliber vs Top Fuel?

I anticipate getting a Top Fuel later this summer for testing, but at this point I can’t really say. But that will entirely depend on the type of riding you do. For all-day adventures or long-distance racing, I think the Top Fuel should be more comfortable.

Any updates on the “suspension clunk” ?

Unfortunately, no. I was unable to get any updates from the Trek mechanics after I returned it. Sorry about that and thanks for wanting a resolution there. Bummed I wasn’t able to get to the bottom of it.

Have you experienced it yourself?

You may want to buy 9.7 Supercaliber and just upgrade a few items to save money. I put a Fox 100mm 32 float , Fox transfer SL dropper, carbon integrated bar 760 mm. My bike is around 23 pounds but more customized now for my needs.

Sounds like a great setup! I miss riding this bike.

Having challenges getting the suspension set to a point where i can feel like i am NOT having to fight with the bike through rough stuff.. anyone with similar challenges?

A 2021 9.7 large..5’9″ 180lb rider… ususally have a fast first lap but hit the wall on lap 2 of races because of fatigue

I’m not exactly sure what you mean by “fighting the bike,” but I’m guessing you have the rebound set in the middle as a starting point? It should be about 10 clicks total. Back it out and then click it in 5 times. If you’ve tried that, I’m afraid I don’t have this bike on-hand anymore to do much troubleshooting.

Thanks.. been tuning rebound a bunch and yesterday just tried running lower shock/fork pressure… that seemed to really help. I race Saturday and will see if it resolves it for me

That klunk you are hearing in the isostrut probably is when it bottoms out. I run 155 psi in it at my weight of 175 lbs with 10-12 licks of rebound. Your stated pressure seemed low. My wife uses 95 psi at her weight of 120 lbs.

Definitely something to look at and consider. It’s been a little while, but I don’t recall it being on bottom-out. Admittedly, I did run lower pressures to add suppleness, but I’m pretty confident I can detect a bottom-out versus something else. That said, the shock on the Supercaliber is unique and maybe I missed it. Sounds like you both love yours! What a fun bike! I’m definitely interested in the Supercaliber 2.0 when it comes out.

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2024 Trek Supercaliber Review | A striking & deadly efficient short travel XC race bike

The not-so-minor details, 2024 trek supercaliber slr 9.8 gx axs.

https://www.trekbikes.com

From $8,999 AUD ($11,999 AUD as tested)

- Beautifully sleek & distinctive frame design - Ruthless pedal efficiency - Hardtail-like handling response - Great small-bump sensitivity & grip - Dropper post standard on all models - Unrivalled mud clearance

- IsoStrut lacked lubrication oil from factory - Insanely tight tyre & rim interface - Expensive for the spec - Cockpit ergonomics aren't great - Messy cables

Wil reviews the 2024 Trek Supercaliber

The Trek Supercaliber debuted in 2019 as a short travel XC bike built around the distinctive IsoStrut suspension design. Bred for racing at the very highest level of the sport, the Supercaliber has earned plenty of success including multiple World Cup, World Championship and Olympic victories. Four years is a long time in the XC world however, and the platform was no doubt due for a makeover.

To bring things up to date Trek recently unveiled the second generation Supercaliber. Although it appears to be a spitting image of its predecessor, a closer look reveals two new carbon frames, key geometry updates, an increase in travel and a redesigned IsoStrut shock made by RockShox.

So how do all those changes play out on the trail? How different is it to the original model? And how does it compare to the best XC bikes on the market? We got our hands on the 2024 Trek Supercaliber to find out!

Watch our video review of the Trek Supercaliber here:

Despite the improved suspension performance, it’s clear that the new Supercaliber has lost none of its ruthless efficiency.

An overview of the 2024 Trek Supercaliber

The 2024 Trek Supercaliber remains as the US brand’s flagship full suspension race bike that’s designed to compete with fellow XC speedsters like the Scott Spark RC , Specialized Epic World Cup , and  Giant Anthem .

It still features the distinctive IsoStrut suspension platform, though rear travel has increased from 60mm to 80mm. Fork travel has also bumped up to 110mm. However, the frame will handle a 100-120mm travel fork for those looking to tune the geometry and handling.

The OCLV carbon frame is all-new, and it’s now produced in two tiers; SL and SLR. They share an identical swingarm, but feature different front triangles. The SLR version incorporates higher modulus fibres, and it also uses conventional internal cable routing with foam insulation tubes to prevent rattling. In comparison, the SL frame features moulded-in guide tubes to make cable routing easier, at the expense of some added weight.

On that note, we’re glad to see Trek bucking the trend for routing the cables through the headset. Keeping things simple, the Knock Block steering limiter is also gone.

The Supercaliber does retain its 92mm wide PF92 bottom bracket shell, though an update to the new-school 55mm chainline has allowed the engineers to build in more tyre clearance. And aside from the top-end model, each Supercaliber now comes standard with 2.4in wide tyres. There’s also a new floating rear brake mount that’s designed specifically for 160mm rotors.

There’s a new IsoStrut

While the IsoStrut suspension design carries over to the new Trek Supercaliber, the shock itself is all-new. It’s now manufactured in partnership with RockShox, and it’s based on the latest SIDLuxe shock .

The available adjustments remain the same with an external rebound dial, air valve and a two-position remote lockout. However, the stroke has increased from 32.5mm to 40mm to help deliver the extra rear travel. Trek says the leverage rate is higher and flatter, with the goal of improving small-bump sensitivity and grip. Furthermore, the shock damper incorporates a bigger piston to improve oil flow and reduce choking on high-speed impacts.

The IsoStrut stanchion has also grown in diameter to 38mm, which is said to improve rear wheel tracking and elevate the frame’s overall torsional stiffness. It now gets anodised sag gradients to make setup easier, and the head of the shock only needs a 4mm hex key to open it up for servicing, compared to the Race Face BB tool that was required for the old bike.

Even with the extra travel there’s still a keen focus on efficiency. Trek has moved the main pivot 10mm upwards to increase anti-squat and better resist suspension bob under pedalling inputs. It also means you can fit a larger chainring (up to a 38T) without sacrificing the Supercaliber’s snappy pedalling performance.

Trek Supercaliber frame weight

As mentioned earlier, the 2024 Trek Supercaliber frame is offered in both SL and SLR variants. The SLR frame is claimed to weigh 1,950g including the shock, while the SL frame comes in at 2,100g.

Now although Trek says the new SLR frame is lighter than its predecessor, that isn’t entirely true. It’s worth noting that when the Supercaliber first launched in 2019 it actually boasted a claimed frame weight of 1,933g. Curiously that figure has grown over the years and is now listed as 2,150g.

We asked Trek about this increase, and the response was that it was due to a rolling change in 2021 that saw a heavier swingarm developed for UDH compatibility. It’s unclear how a UDH dropout could result in a 217g weight increase, so perhaps there were other reasons behind the swingarm getting heavier.

Comparisons to the old bike aside, here’s how the new Supercaliber SLR frame compares to the claimed weights of some of its competitors;

• Specialized S-Works Epic EVO  – 1,659g
• Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup – 1,712g
• Giant Anthem Advanced Pro  – 1,735g
• Orbea Oiz OMX  – 1,798g
• Scott Spark HMX SL  – 1,870g
• Canyon Lux World Cup CFR  – 1,894g
• Cannondale Scalpel Hi-Mod  – 1,910g
• Santa Cruz Blur 4  – 1,933g
• Trek Supercaliber SLR – 1,950g
• Merida Ninety-Six RC  – 2,064g
• Trek Supercaliber SL – 2,100g

Geometry updates

There have also been some noteworthy updates to the geometry on the 2024 Trek Supercaliber.

The 67.5° head angle is quite a bit slacker than the old bike, and the reach has grown by 10-15mm across the five frame sizes. Along with a 5mm increase in chainstay length, the overall wheelbase is considerably longer.

Trek has also steepened the seat angle by half a degree and lifted the BB height by 7mm. The aim was to improve the Supercaliber’s technical climbing performance, while also factoring in the change in dynamic ride height due to the increased suspension travel.

Trek Supercaliber price & specs

There will be six Trek Supercaliber models available in Australia, with prices starting from $8,999 AUD for the Supercaliber SL 9.7 AXS.

Most of the higher-end models will only be available through the Project One custom bike builder, which allows you to choose from a range of paint jobs and specification options. You can see the detailed specs and prices of the full range at the bottom of this review.

Our test bike sits in the middle of the lineup, and we expect it’ll be one of the most popular options; it’s the Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.8 GX AXS, and the current price on this is $11,999 AUD.

• Frame | SLR OCLV Mountain Carbon, IsoStrut Suspension Design, 80mm Travel
• Fork | RockShox SID, Rush RL Damper w/Lockout, 44mm Offset, 110mm Travel
• Shock | RockShox SIDLuxe IsoStrut w/Lockout, 240x40mm
• Wheels | Bontrager Kovee Elite, Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres |  Bontrager Sainte-Anne RSL XR, 2.4in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain | SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission 1×12 w/34T Crankset & 10-52T Cassette
• Brakes | SRAM Level Bronze 4-Piston w/180mm Front & 160mm Rear Rotors
• Cockpit | Bontrager RSL Integrated Bar & Stem, OCLV Carbon, 750mm Width
• Seatpost | Bontrager Line Dropper, 31.6mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 125mm (M-ML), 150mm (L-XL)
• Saddle | Bonrager Verse Elite, Austentite Rails
• Confirmed Weight | 11.62kg
• RRP | $11,999 AUD

The increased travel and flatter leverage rate offers noticeably improved sensitivity over its predecessor, and indeed the back end is smoother than you’d expect for an XC bike with just 80mm of travel.

Trek Supercaliber sizing & fit

At 175cm tall I have the option of riding either the M or ML size in the Trek Supercaliber. The stack is identical between the two, with the key difference being the reach (435mm vs 450mm). Most of the XC bikes I’ve been testing lately have been in the 440-450mm zone, so I elected for the ML size.

The riding position is stretched-out, aggressive and racy. Your weight is pushed low and forward thanks to the short head tube and negative rise 70mm stem. You feel very much in-the-bike, with the Supercaliber hovering close to the ground.

While the fit is good, I can’t say I’m totally gelling with the cockpit ergonomics. There’s a limited range of adjustment for the lever reach on the SRAM Level Bronze brakes, and even with the dial wound all the way in they’re still not quite as close to the grips as I’d like.

Our test bike comes standard with the cheap version of Bontrager’s dropper remote that features a standalone bar clamp. It really only fits in between the TwistLoc remote and the brake lever clamp, and that means the paddle sits quite far outboard. Not only does it push into the knuckle of my thumb, it also makes it difficult to grab a hold of the TwistLoc remote to actuate.

High-end Supercaliber models get a dropper remote that mounts directly to the brake lever, which would help to alleviate this clearance issue.

As we’ve experienced with the 2024 RockShox SID , the new TwistLoc Ultimate remote works well. However, for some reason our test bike came with the straight cable guide that spits the cables out perpendicular to the handlebar, which makes for an unsightly mess of cables. The angled cable guide would certainly make more sense here.

Suspension setup

Setting up the suspension on the new Trek Supercaliber has been made significantly easier thanks to the anodised sag gradients on the IsoStrut stanchion. Trek says you run the shock with 20-30% sag depending on the feel you’re after. I ended up at 25% sag, with 116psi to support my 67kg riding weight. I’ve set rebound damping on the quicker side at just three clicks off the fastest setting (7/10 clicks).

It’s also possible to tune the shock’s progression with volume spacers, and two are included in the box with the bike. It’s not a straightforward process however, as you’ll need to remove the IsoStrut assembly from the frame in order to open up the shock and access the air spring.

Up front is the new 2024 RockShox SID . It’s the base model with the Rush RL damper, though it features the same chassis and DebonAir+ spring as the top-end Ultimate model that I’ve been testing recently. As with the Ultimate model, I’ve found the suggested pressures via the RockShox Trailhead app to be too low. Instead of the recommended 69psi I’m running 82psi, and I have the rebound damping set nine clicks out from the slowest setting (9/22 clicks).

Trek Supercaliber weight

With the tyres set up tubeless our Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.8 GX AXS test bike came in at a confirmed weight of 11.62kg. That’s higher than the claimed weight of 11.28kg, and it’s also on the heavier side for a premium XC race bike with a $12K price tag.

As with all Supercaliber models, it does come fitted with a dropper post, which is fantastic to see. The Bontrager Line dropper is relatively heavy at 554g (confirmed), so you could drop 200g alone by upgrading to a Fox Transfer SL .

It’s worth noting that the Bontrager Kovee Pro wheelset is the older version with heavier rims and a deeper profile. These came in at a confirmed weight of 1,757g including the pre-fitted TLR rim strips and valves. That’s reasonable, though nowhere near the jaw-dropping 1,217g weight of the Kovee RSL wheelset we recently reviewed .

I suspect this obscenely tight fit is due to the combination the thick plastic TLR rim strips and the tyres themselves, but whatever the case, it’s not good.

Super-tight tyres

We’re glad to see Trek including a bottle of sealant with the bike, which makes it easy to set the tyres up tubeless.

Speaking of, these are the new Bontrager Sainte-Anne tyres that’ll be replacing the outgoing XR2. With a tread pattern that’s reminiscent of a Schwalbe Racing Ralph, they feature a finely-woven 220tpi casing, sidewall protection, dual compound rubber and a generous 2.4in width.

During the initial build I discovered that the tyres on our test bike appeared to be welded onto the rims, and found it impossible to physically pop the bead with my bare hands. With the help of a friend, a vice and some choice vocabulary, we eventually managed to peel the tyres off the rims. I suspect this obscenely tight fit is due to the combination the thick plastic TLR rim strips and the tyres themselves, but whatever the case, it’s not good.

Once I removed the tyres I was able to weigh them (798g confirmed) before fitting a tubeless insert into the rear wheel. I aired them up to 22psi up front and 24psi out back and rolled towards the trailhead, desperately praying I wouldn’t suffer any punctures.

Servicing the IsoStrut

Having spent a load of time on the previous generation Trek Supercaliber , I was very excited to see how the new bike would compare. However, I have to admit that I wasn’t totally loving it during the first few rides. The claims of improved sensitivity weren’t exactly playing out on the trail, with the back end feeling somewhat harsh.

This wasn’t a total surprise as the IsoStrut assembly does require some trail time to bed in, though out of curiosity I decided to pull it apart to get a closer look at the innards and see how different it was to the old bike.

Straight away the back end of the Supercaliber felt better, and it gradually became smoother and more sensitive over the course of the next few rides.

It’s worth noting here that the 38mm stanchion is essentially one half of a RockShox Zeb. In fact, the IsoStrut uses exactly the same bushings and wiper seals as the big-hitting single crown fork. That’s pretty cool, and it should make it easier to source replacements when needed.

For those wondering, the IsoStrut weighs in at 369g on the workshop scales, which is about 100g heavier than a conventional SIDLuxe shock. Bear in mind that it’s also a structural member of the frame, so it’s not exactly an apples-to-apples comparison.

With the IsoStrut cracked open I discovered that while it wasn’t totally bone-dry inside, there wasn’t a lot of lubrication fluid present. I gave it all a clean and pumped in 15cc of the requisite Maxima Plush suspension fluid and bolted everything back together.

Straight away the back end of the Supercaliber felt better, and it gradually became smoother and more sensitive over the course of the next few rides. Now with over 250km of testing logged, I’m confident to give a detailed appraisal of the bike.

What do we dig about the 2024 Trek Supercaliber?

With the IsoStrut dialled in, the Trek Supercaliber has been getting better the more I’ve ridden it.

The increased travel and flatter leverage rate offers noticeably improved sensitivity over its predecessor, and indeed the back end is smoother than you’d expect for an XC bike with just 80mm of travel. Seated comfort is excellent, and the rear suspension generates usable grip whether you’re in or out of the saddle.

Of course it’s not as plush as the longer travel Spark or Oiz . In direct comparison, the IsoStrut platform delivers a feel that’s closer to those two bikes when their suspension remotes are set to the middle setting (Traction Control or Medium).

However, for most XC racer types the Supercaliber will be sufficiently comfortable, and it’s obviously way more compliant than a hardtail. The high volume tyres also allow for lower pressures and more cushioning across sharp edges, and the 110mm travel SID keeps the front end tracking smoothly. The bigger chassis is a great match for the sturdy Supercaliber, offering a considerably more planted ride quality over the skinnier 32mm forks that came standard on the old bike.

Being able to drop the saddle down for the descents also makes a huge difference to descending confidence. Combined with the slacker head angle and longer wheelbase, the new Supercaliber is a far more stable bike at speed.

Stompable efficiency

Despite the improved suspension performance, it’s clear that the Supercaliber has lost none of its ruthless efficiency. Indeed the lockout is somewhat superfluous on this bike, which is good because I couldn’t really activate the TwistLoc remote anyway due to the poor placement of the dropper lever.

Really the only reason you’d reach for it in the first place would be to stabilise the fork during out-of-the-saddle sprinting. Otherwise you can comfortably leave the suspension open all the time with no concern for losing precious watts to pedal bob.

As for the source of the Supercaliber’s impressive efficiency, that comes down to a combination of the frame’s kinematics and the shock’s damper tune. We’re told that the compression damping in the Open setting is actually the same as the middle setting on a regular SIDLuxe 3-position shock, which makes sense as it’s very steady under pedalling inputs. Combined with the linear leverage rate and increased anti-squat, there’s zero hint of wallow through the rear end.

This makes the Supercaliber incredibly responsive under power, and it really encourages you to attack the trail at any opportunity. There’s minimal flex between the handlebar and the rear axle, which helps to translate explosive efforts when you’re yanking on the grips and stomping on the pedals. It lights up technical climbs, with the slightly taller BB height offering decent ground clearance over technical features.

Razor-sharp rigidity

Indeed it’s the overall chassis stiffness that represents one of the main drivers behind the IsoStrut platform. With the big 38mm stanchion braced by two widely-spaced bushings, Trek’s engineers have been able to minimise rear-end flex compared to a frame with a traditional swing link. This gives the Supercaliber a near-hardtail level of rigidity, with a sharp and agile feel when darting through the corners.

Trek has bolstered this with the stiff carbon wheels and RSL one-piece cockpit, so while the slacker head angle has calmed down the steering somewhat, the handling is still positively telepathic compared to most other XC bikes. Steering inputs are transmitted with minimal lag, and I found myself subconsciously taking the inside lines whenever possible.

There’s a real sense of what the terrain is doing beneath you thanks to the direct line of communication between your contact points and the tyre contact patches. This lack of vagueness is particularly beneficial across softer trail surfaces and through dusty berms, where you can modulate your weight distribution to maximise grip.

What has it struggled with?

While it is smoother and more stable than predecessor, the Trek Supercaliber doesn’t offer the same level of big-hit confidence on the descents as the Spark and Oiz. It’s surprisingly well controlled thanks to its sturdy chassis and nicely balanced geometry, but you can still run out of travel when pushing hard on rocky terrain.

There isn’t a tonne of support from the rear suspension, and that means it’s possible to bottom it out on bigger and harder landings. The sensation was initially quite harsh and metallic-y, though hitting full travel did become notably quieter and more damped after servicing the IsoStrut with fresh oil. It still makes a bit of noise when fully bottoming out, which seems to be amplified by the hollow stanchion.

With this in mind, I’d suggest heavier riders and anyone who’s wishing to run more than 25% sag will need to add a volume spacer to increase ramp-up. In my case, I found the stock setup worked fine as long as I exercised a little nuance and chose smoother lines as I would on a hardtail.

Even still, the Supercaliber exhibits noticeable feedback through the drivetrain across high-frequency chatter. This is the downside of the higher main pivot, which results in increased pedal kickback that is particularly noticeable on rocky tech climbs.

You could mellow out this sensation by fitting a larger chainring. This would reduce the amount of chain growth that occurs as the shock goes through its travel, potentially leading to a smoother ride quality.

Component highs & lows

It has to be said that for the $11,999 AUD asking price, our Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.8 GX AXS test bike doesn’t represent amazing value for money. It costs the same as the Cervelo ZFS-5 I’m currently testing, yet that bike comes with a SRAM X0 Transmission and a Reverb AXS dropper post. And the Orbea Oiz M10 I reviewed recently is $2,500 AUD cheaper despite having Factory Series Fox suspension and a nicer wheelset.

This would suggest that it’s the gorgeous SLR carbon frame and efficient IsoStrut suspension that you’re mostly paying for here. It’s also worth highlighting the trick Bontrager RSL one-piece cockpit, which sells for $640 AUD on its own and weighs just 239g.

While not overly blingy, the rest of the component package on our test bike has worked pretty well. The SRAM GX Transmission isn’t as light as its pricier X0 and XX siblings, but the gear range and shifting accuracy is superb. And although the Level brakes weren’t totally quiet, they otherwise offer excellent power and feel.

The Kovee Pro wheels have been solid, though as a lighter rider I didn’t find the stiff carbon rims to offer much compliance on rocky trails. I confirmed this by testing out the Supercaliber with the Kovee RSL wheelset , which made a noticeable difference to the overall ride quality. The stock wheels are very direct though, and the buzzy 108pt engagement offers rapid pickup at the pedals. The freehub is already starting to show some signs of contamination, so you’ll want to keep on top of maintenance to avoid premature bearing wear.

As for the overly tight-fitting tyres, I was mighty thankful not to have encountered any punctures throughout testing. If this were my bike, I’d be replacing the plastic TLR rim strips and fitting standard tubeless tape.

While not a big issue in terms of performance, the rear tyre has had a hefty wobble in the casing from new, which is a bit disappointing from a quality control perspective. I was otherwise happy to see the Sainte-Anne tyres measuring up exactly as claimed at 2.4in wide, and I found them to roll really well while offering predictable grip on dry and dusty hardpacked trails. The rubber compound lacks some grip on wet rocks and roots, which caused me a couple of pant-shitting moments when the wheels were spat out sideways.

Frame details

One positive I noticed during a particularly muddy test ride was the insane amount of clearance through the rear of the frame. Unlike most full suspension designs, the chainstay bridge on the Trek Supercaliber sits in front of the seat tube. This significantly reduces mud build-up, which is something you’ll be thankful for when the weather conditions turn south on race day.

As mentioned earlier, I’ve not been stoked on the cockpit ergonomics or cable management. Our test bike has exhibited some cable noise from inside the frame, and the bird’s nest in front of the handlebars spoils the otherwise clean lines of the IsoStrut platform.

It is nice to see the Supercaliber equipped with a conventional headset, though I do miss the Knock Block steering limiter. On our M/L size test bike, the dropper post lever and right-hand controller are able to contact the top tube when the bar spins around, which could cause some unfortunate damage in the event of a crash.

In terms of general maintenance, RockShox recommends servicing the IsoStrut air can every 100 hours of ride time, which is actually double the interval for a regular SIDLuxe shock. Given our experience however, I’d suggest checking the lubrication levels if you’re experiencing any harshness from new. Our test bike came out of Trek Australia’s production stock, so there’s a chance there could be consumer bikes out there in a similar condition.

Servicing is a relatively easy process to undertake, and I like how the IsoStrut combines existing components from the Zeb fork and SIDLuxe shock. I was also glad to see all of the bolts and mounting points lining up neatly, and there was no bending or preloading required to get the swingarm back into place. Of note is the new main pivot, which now uses a collet axle with a conical wedge to keep everything snug and secure.

Trek Supercaliber vs Specialized Epic World Cup

When it comes to comparisons to the Trek Supercaliber, none are more apt than the Specialized Epic World Cup .

Launched earlier this year, the Epic World Cup features a similar profile with its rear shock partially hidden within the frame’s top tube. Equipped with 75mm of rear travel, the Epic World Cup also utilises a custom shock that’s manufactured by RockShox. It’s called the SIDLuxe WCID and it uses a unique, tuneable air-spring to deliver an automated pedalling platform. Combined with the fork’s Brain damper, the Epic World Cup is defined by its lack of remote lockouts and excess cables. The result is a remarkably clean cockpit that is quite the juxtaposition to the Supercaliber.

As for pricing, the Specialized Epic World Cup Pro we tested sells for $13,900 AUD. It gets a considerably better spec with a RockShox SID SL Ultimate fork, a SRAM X0 Transmission, a powermeter, Level Silver brakes, and a Roval Control Carbon wheelset. Unfortunately it doesn’t come standard with a dropper post, but overall it feels like a more refined package out of the box.

It also comes in quite a bit lighter at 10.32kg. Even if you did add a Reverb AXS dropper, it’d still be close to a kilo lighter overall.

While we’re talking weight, the Epic World Cup’s FACT 12m carbon frame is claimed to be over 200g lighter than the Supercaliber SLR (1,712g vs 1,950g). There are some other differences, with the Epic World Cup featuring a threaded BB shell and internal routing through the headset.

Out on the trail, both bikes offer incredible pedalling performance. They share a similar ethos with no need to adjust levers or toggle remotes, encouraging you to hammer away on the pedals and focus on the trail ahead. It’s quite a different experience to the Scott Spark for example, which is very much reliant on its TwinLoc remote.

Thanks to the WCID shock and its tuneable negative air spring, there’s considerable scope for dialling in the rear suspension on the Epic World Cup. In the ‘Active’ setting the rear suspension isn’t as efficient but it is smoother than the Supercaliber. There’s greater support with a stronger ramp-up towards the end of the travel, while the lower anti-squat results in a more neutral feel through the pedals over chunky terrain.

Furthermore, the Epic World Cup features a slacker head angle (66.5° vs 67.5°) and more BB drop (57mm vs 46mm), which results in improved stability and confidence on the descents. The Brain-equipped SID SL fork isn’t overly supple, and you need to be riding fast and assertively to get the most out of the inertia valve. The upside is that it doesn’t bob much at all when you’re sprinting, and it provides awesome stability on high-speed flow trails, staying high in its travel through berms and rollers.

For smoother race courses, setting up the WCID shock in the ‘Firm’ setting delivers an almost locked-out hardtail feel. In this setting the Epic World Cup is a touch more efficient than the Supercaliber, but it does lack some small-bump compliance.

Given the adjustability that’s on offer, the Epic World Cup requires a decent amount of trail time to experiment with the available settings in order to find your preferred setup. Of course there is no way to adjust the settings on-the-fly, and the lack of a remote lockout may be a turnoff for some racers. For others, the automated platform and clutter-free cockpit will be more than worth it.

In comparison, the Supercaliber is a simpler and more focused beast. Once you’ve dialled in your shock sag and rebound, there’s not much more to worry about. Pedalling performance is always ultra-snappy, and you’ve got access to a proper full lockout when needed. While the back end isn’t as supportive on bigger hits or as compliant on rockier terrain as the Epic World Cup, it does deliver excellent climbing grip and seated comfort. Along with the taut carbon frame, higher BB and steeper head angle, it’s more responsive through the turns and it’s arguably the better climber out of the two.

Flow’s Verdict

With its new frame, updated geometry and redesigned IsoStrut, the 2024 Trek Supercaliber is a welcome evolution of the original.

Some folks may be disappointed that it doesn’t look all that different, and for sure it isn’t a radical departure from its predecessor. It’s still sharp, efficient and highly responsive on tight singletrack, making it well suited to racing dirt crits and short track XC.

The suspension is notably improved however, offering better grip and small-bump sensitivity. Along with the bigger fork, dropper post and 2.4in tyres, the new Supercaliber exudes more confidence on the descents and greater stability at speed.

It isn’t exactly a flawless package though, and we’ve not been blown away by its weight or value for money. It’s also not as plush or as supportive as some of its longer travel contemporaries, and that makes it less versatile outside of the race tape, especially on rockier terrain.

If you’re serious about XC racing and you value efficiency above all else however, you’re unlikely to find a more focussed bike than the Supercaliber. It does a marvellous job of straddling the performance gap between a hardtail and a traditional full suspension bike, offering razor-sharp handling and crisp pedalling performance with just enough travel to get you out of trouble when needed.

2024 Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS

• Fork | RockShox SID SL Ultimate, Charger Race Day Damper w/Lockout, 44mm Offset, 110mm Travel
• Wheels | Bontrager Kovee RSL, Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres |  Bontrager Sainte-Anne RSL XR, 2.2in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain | SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS Transmission 1×12 w/34T Crankset & 10-52T Cassette
• Brakes | SRAM Level Ultimate 4-Piston w/160mm Rotors
• Seatpost | Fox Transfer SL, Factory Series, 31.6mm Diameter, 100mm Travel
• Saddle | Bontrager Aeolus RSL, Carbon Rails
• Claimed Weight | 9.45kg
• RRP | $18,999 AUD

2024 Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XTR

• Fork | Fox 34 Step-Cast, Factory Series, FIT4 Damper w/Lockout, 44mm Offset, 110mm Travel
• Wheels | Bontrager Kovee Pro 30, Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Drivetrain | Shimano XTR 1×12 w/34T e*13 TRS Race Carbon Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
• Brakes | Shimano XTR 2-Piston w/160mm Rotors
• Seatpost | Fox Transfer SL, Factory Series, 31.6mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S-M), 125mm (ML-L), 150mm (XL)
• Claimed Weight | 9.75kg
• RRP | $17,299 AUD

2024 Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 X0 AXS

• Fork | RockShox SID Ultimate, Charger Race Day Damper w/Lockout, 44mm Offset, 110mm Travel
• Wheels | Bontrager Kovee Pro, Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Drivetrain | SRAM X0 Eagle AXS Transmission 1×12 w/34T Crankset & 10-52T Cassette
• Brakes | SRAM Level Silver 4-Piston w/180mm Front & 160mm Rear Rotors
• Seatpost | RockShox Reverb AXS, 31.6mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M-XL)
• Saddle | Bonrager Aeolus Elite, Austentite Rails
• Claimed Weight | 11kg
• RRP | $16,499 AUD

• Claimed Weight | 11.28kg

2024 Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.8 XT

• Fork | Fox 34 Step-Cast, Performance Series, GRIP Damper w/Lockout, 44mm Offset, 110mm Travel
• Wheels | Bontrager Kovee Elite 30, Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Drivetrain | Shimano XT 1×12 w/34T e*13 TRS Race Carbon Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
• Brakes | Shimano XT 2-Piston w/180mm Front & 160mm Rear Rotors
• Claimed Weight | 10.95kg
• RRP | $11,599 AUD

2024 Trek Supercaliber SL 9.7 AXS

• Frame | SL OCLV Mountain Carbon, IsoStrut Suspension Design, 80mm Travel
• Fork | RockShox Reba RL, Motion Control Damper w/Lockout, 42mm Offset, 110mm Travel
• Wheels | Bontrager Kovee Comp 25, Alloy Rims, 25mm Inner Width
• Handlebar | Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 750mm Width
• Stem | Bontrager Elite, 35mm Diameter Clamp
• Saddle | Bontrager Verse Elite, Austentite Rails
• Claimed Weight | 11.8kg
• RRP | $8,999 AUD
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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

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.

2017 Superfly 7

2021 X-Caliber 8

2021 Procaliber 9.6

(descending)

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

Where XC bikes get serious X-Caliber is a high-value cross country mountain bike that performs way out of its class on singletrack and long XC rides. It has a lightweight aluminum frame, quality parts, and more versatility than you can shake a spoke at. Whether you’re lining up at your local XC races or chasing daylight after work, this bike will give you speed and efficiency for your best days on the trail.

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The best fit for every rider X-Caliber comes in seven frame sizes to suit any height, and Smart Wheel Size ensures every rider gets the fastest wheel that fits. Larger sizes have bigger 29˝ wheels and smaller sizes have more proportional 27.5˝wheels.

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