Trek Fuel EX 27.5 Plus joins wide wheel fray
The new plus sized version of the Fuel EX has140mm of travel up front and 130mm in back (click to enlarge).
The Fuel is one of Trek’s most popular models. Available with either 27.5” or 29” wheels, these bikes are extremely capable trail rigs that don’t sacrifice anything on the climbs. When paired up with the EX moniker, they’re given a more rugged product spec that makes them even more confident on the descents. To make this bike even more capable all around, Trek is now offering a 27.5+ version of the Fuel EX.
The headtube angle of the Fuel EX 27.5+ is about 2 degrees slacker than the 29er version (click to enlarge).
In addition to accepting larger tires, the Fuel EX Plus sees a number of geometry and suspension changes from its 29” sibling. As you’ve come to expect due to current trends, the frame is longer and slacker. Depending on the position of Trek’s adjustable Mino Link, the head tube angle can be raked out to 66.6 degrees, that’s roughly two degrees more than the current 29er specific version.
Like the 29er, the Fuel EX Plus uses boost front and rear spacing (click to enlarge).
The Plus model will ship with 27×2.8” Bontrager Chupacabra tires mounted on 40mm wide rims, but can also accommodate 29×2.4” tires. Trek does not recommend running regular 27.5 wheels on this frameset because it lowers the bottom bracket too much, which can cause handling issues.
The top tier 9.8 model comes equipped with all the goods, including a front derailleur (click to enlarge)
Prices for the base Fuel EX 5 model is $2400, while the top of the line Fuel EX 9.8 retails for $5,299. A mid level model, the Fuel EX 8, is also available for $3,300. Both the 8 and 9.8 versions are shipping now. The EX 5 will start shipping in June. A frame only version is not currently available.
Continue to page 2 for a lengthy FAQ on the new Trek Fuel EX 27.5 Plus »
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