The test bench squeezes 146 millimetres out of the rear of the Trek Fuel EX. No wonder the black racer comes close to being a potent all-mountain bike. However, the shorter fork is inferior to the rear triangle and somewhat weakly damped, otherwise the downhill urge would be even more pronounced. The suspension is very sensitive and offers a lot of comfort and safety on the trail. The rear suspension should not be ridden too softly (max. 20-25 per cent sag), as otherwise it will bob a little through the travel. The balanced geometry creates a good compromise between composure and playfulness. Only when things get really fast and bumpy does the ride become a little choppy. The grippy Bontrager tyres and the brake system with a 200 mm disc at the front also trim the bike towards the downhill and contribute to safety. Uphill, the rear suspension is also sensitive and generates a lot of grip on rooty climbs, but also reacts quite strongly to crank movements and position shifts. The Fuel EX bobs and requires you to reach for the platform lever on climbs. With the compression damping closed, the Trek climbs pleasantly unobtrusively, there is no lockout. In technical terrain, the low bottom bracket ensures occasional ground contact, especially in the slack geometry setting, which can be adjusted using a flipchip. For wild trail rides, we liked the flat position better. The seat stays are wide so that the heels can graze when pedalling.
Tobias Brehler, BIKE tester:
I would choose the Trek Fuel EX again. The rear suspension is very plush and the tyres offer plenty of reserves. I also like the geometry: the long reach gives a good feeling downhill, but thanks to the steep seat angle, the riding position remains pleasantly neutral. This potent trail bike therefore offers great all-round characteristics.
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Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
