A tale of two Treks: Fuel EX vs Fuel EXe

When Trek released the Fuel EXe and Fuel EX just weeks apart the similarities were obvious and intentional. The sixth generation of Trek’s Fuel EX looked much different than previous years. But it was almost identical to the look of Trek’s new lightweight eMTB, the Fuel EXe.

That the two bikes look so similar is a testament to what Trek achieved with EXe by using TQ’s new HP150 motor. Other than a slightly larger downtube on the EXe, it can be hard to tell the bikes apart at a glance.

The similarities don’t stop at appearance, though. Trek wants the Fuel EXe to ride like its traditionally-powered partner, the EX. After several months riding both brand new Treks, we put the two bright yellow steeds head-to-head to see how they compare.

Trek Fuel EX vs Trek Fuel EXe

By the numbers: Trek Fuel EX vs. Trek Fuel EXe

While the two Treks look similar, down to the bright yellow colour, there are differences in the details that go beyond just the presence or absence of a motor. While both have Trek’s Mino Link, the Fuel EX has a storage compartment in the downtube and more adjustment, including the ability to adjust head angles with headset cups and suspension progression via a flip chip at the shock mount.

Here’s how the two Treks compare, by the numbers.

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 xx1 AXS

Weight: 18.45 kg. (40.6 lbs)
Frame material: carbon fibre
Travel: 140mm rear, 150mm front
Motor: TQ HPR 50
Battery: 360 Wh battery
Geometry adjustments: Mino Link
Wheels: 29″ (with option to run 27.5″ rear wheel)
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Price: $18,300

Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS (Gen 6)

Weight: 14.11kg  (31.11lbs)
Frame material: carbon fibre
Travel: 140mm rear, 150mm front
Geometry adjustments: Mino Link, Head tube angle, suspension progression
Wheels: 27.5″ in XS-S, 29″ in S-XL (with option to run 27.5″ rear wheel)
Sizes: XS, S (27.5″), S (29″), M, M/L, L, XL
Price: $13,700

One last difference is frame material. Trek offers the Fuel EXe in six models, all with carbon fiber frames. The most affordable is the EXe 9.5, at $8,400. The Fuel EX, on the other hand, is available in carbon fiber and aluminum frames. There are eight Gen 6 Fuel EX builds, with the EX 7 coming in at just $4,400.  So, while both top-end bikes are made of carbon fiber, there is a wider range of price points with the Fuel EX.

Trek Fuel EX

Trek Fuel EXe

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