Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 6

Trek Fuel EX 9.7 Gen 6 - The latest generation of the Fuel with carbon frame.

Faster, more versatile, more innovative - the Fuel EX is entering its sixth generation. With a new frame whose suspension is more variable than ever before. The most important factor: the suspension travel. The new Fuel offers 150 millimetres at the fork and 140 millimetres at the rear triangle ex works. This plus of 10 millimetres compared to the older generations may not sound particularly dramatic at first. But in rough terrain, the reserves are definitely noticeable. But the chassis can do even more: thanks to a wide range of adjustment options (MinoLink, steering angle), you can also mount a mixed wheelset with a 27.5-inch rear wheel instead of the standard 29-inch wheelset. Trek recommends a 160 mm fork - which increases the downhill fun even more.

In our opinion, the Fuel is much more than a typical trail bike. Its range of use now covers everything from playful trail riding to serious alpine cross. In the EX 9.7 version, the Fuel comes with a super-light OCLV carbon frame and a high-quality Fox chassis that sensitively absorbs every obstacle. The heart of the wide-ratio 1 x 12 drivetrain is a precise Shimano XT rear derailleur. It's no secret that Sram can build good disc brakes. The Fuel EX 9.7 even features the brand new DB8, which for the first time in Sram history uses service-friendly mineral oil instead of toxic DOT brake fluid. Fast Bontrager wheels provide comfort and traction with puncture-proof tubeless-ready tyres. Not to mention a telescopic seatpost as standard.

Trek OCLV Frame - The Benchmark in Carbon

The OCLV carbon developed by Trek has been a household name on the scene for years. There are different series for the bike classes, from mountain bike to road bike. The Fuel EX 9.7 uses OCLV Mountain Carbon, which was specially developed for tough off-road use. The US manufacturer draws on over 25 years of experience in the construction of carbon frames. In the OCLV process, the mats are laid on top of each other in a sophisticated system and compacted with the optimal fibre-resin ratio. Typical Trek features are the numerous clever details and innovations. The new Fuel frame generation can be recognised by the tube triangle above the shock rocker.

The lower shock linkage has also been improved and now includes a so-called FlipChip. With the help of two different positions, you can adjust the progression of the shock to your riding style. This means that the rear end works either smoothly or rather tightly, so that you don't have to be afraid of punctures when jumping.

The aforementioned MinoLink sits on the shock rocker and works in a similar way, but is used to adjust the geometry. To change the steering angle (64.5 degrees as standard), Trek offers optional special rotating headset cups. This allows you to raise the steering angle by one degree for a more agile ride, or lower it if you like higher speeds. But whatever setup you use to chase the Fuel around the trail, it will put a grin on your face.