Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT in the Light-E-MTB test: Trek's minimal-assist bike is the test winner

Do you want a racy trail bike with e-assistance that is as close as possible to a non-motorised bike in terms of looks and handling? Then the Fuel EXe could end up at the top of your wish list. Like no other bike in our test of eight light e-MTBs, the Trek combines take-charge qualities on rough descents and playfulness on shallow trails. All garnished with a sporty touch.

Because the bike is far from a comfort bomber. It needs to be actively manoeuvred through the terrain, then it rewards the rider with lively, direct handling and plenty of precision. The successful geometry with a very low front end makes the bike a real cornering predator, which is also easy to pull onto the rear wheel and lift into the air on jumps.

>> 7 more light e-MTBs and full-power e-enduro bikes can be found in our overview article <<

The suspension is first-class, but more on the firm and emphatically defined side. It absorbs harsh impacts with ease. On rough descents, however, we would have liked more comfort at the front. The low cockpit and the stiff carbon parts (wheels and stem/handlebar unit) put unnecessary strain on the forearms. The noise level of the Fuel EXe is exceptionally low. Both uphill and downhill.

Our test bike is the quietest E-MTB we've ever ridden! Does the bike have any disadvantages? Yes and no. If you are looking for striking e-bike power, you are definitely in the wrong place with the HPR 50 from TQ. The range is also only moderate in the test comparison. However, the option of a range extender and the removable battery provide enough options for a full day on the trail. If you value tough uphill challenges, you will need an extra portion of lard in your legs, as the motor is one of the minimalists. However, the traction is really strong.

Conclusion on the Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT in the EMTB test

The Trek Fuel EXe is a racy trail bike for experienced riders who are looking for an E-MTB that is as natural and unobtrusive as possible. It is also record-breakingly quiet! A wolf in sheep's clothing, but not for comfort-orientated bikers or fans of real e-bike power.

Technical data and notes Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT

Manufacturer information

• Price: 9999 Euro >> available here
• Sizes / frame material: S / M / L (tested size) / XL / Carbon

Measured values²

• Reach altitude¹: 925 (+148)hm
• Weight²: 18.6 kg
• Average speed: 13.1 km/h
• Centre of gravity height: 514 mm
• Handlebar width: 820 mm
• Crank length / Q-factor: 165 mm / 175 mm
• Ground clearance⁴: 502 mm

Equipment

• Engine: TQ HPR 50
• Max. Torque³: 50 Nm
• Battery³ / weight² / price Replacement battery: TQ, 360 Wh / 1886 g / 600 Euro
• Gear system: Shimano XT (12-speed)
• Translation (v. / h.): 32; 9 - 50
• Display: TQ
• Permissible total weight³: 136 kg
• Fork / shock: Rockshox Lyrik Select+ / Super deluxe Select+
• Front/rear suspension travel: 150 / 140 mm
• Telescopic seatpost: Bontrager Elite Dropper, 170 mm
• Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Sram Code R / 200 mm / 200 mm
• Wheels: Bontrager Line Elite 30 Carbon
• Tyres (front / rear): Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, 29 x 2.5''

EMTB test rating⁵: 8.5 points - very good

BIKE TIP: Test winner

¹ The values were determined during standardised rides on an asphalt climb with an average gradient of 8.4 percent. Rider pedalling power 175 watts, rider weight incl. equipment 90 kg. The assistance level was adjusted for this comparison test so that all bikes travelled at approximately the same speed, see average speed in brackets. The motor output was around 250 watts. The altitude metres in brackets are in significantly reduced emergency mode. All details about our range test can be found here in the link!

² Determined on the test benches in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals. Battery weight incl. screwed-on cover where applicable.

³ Manufacturer's specification

⁴ Step test, measured with 36 centimetre raised rear wheel

⁵ The judgement reflects the subjective impression of the testers and the results of the reach measurement and laboratory tests. The EMTB judgement is independent of price. EMTB judgements: super (from 9.0), very good (from 8.0), good (from 7.0), satisfactory (from 6.0), with weaknesses (from 5.0), below insufficient.