Trek FX1 2021 Review – Is It Worth It?
Let’s start with the upfront conclusion. 👇
Trek FX1 is among the best entry-level hybrid bikes on the market. For just $500, you get some excellent parts on top of the lightweight Alpha Gold Aluminum Frame.
The FX1 is a bike you can ride for daily commuting or want a nice bike to get in shape. Another reason for loving the FX1 is the availability of sizes. This bike comes in four different frame sizes – S, M, L, and XL.
Trek FX Series
FX series are fitness/commuter hybrid bikes in Trek’s lineup. They’re among the most popular models within the brand, and you can spot many Trek FX bicycles on the streets.
As we know, hybrid bikes are a mixture of road bikes and mountain bikes. They’re super versatile all-rounder bikes loved by many people around the states. If you want to learn more about Trek Bikes, check our Trek Bikes overview article.
Components and Build
Trek is a brand famous for the quality of the components and the exceptional build of its bikes. The FX1 is definitely not an exception, despite the fact it costs only $500. Let’s dive into more details about each component and part.
Frame and Fork
The FX1 runs this awesome Alpha Gold Aluminum Frame, which is very solid and lightweight. Trek produces some of the best aluminum frames, so this one is no exception.
The frame is continuously cold extruded and butted and then shaped in manipulated tube shapes. It also comes with built-in mounts for adding racks and fenders.
What’s the difference between Trek FX1 and FX1 Stagger? See the below images for clarification.
FX1 is available with two types of frames on Trek’s website. The regular version and a model called FX1 Stagger sell with a step-through frame for easy-on and easy-off. The stagger version would be great for anyone planning to use a child seat. The elderly also prefer step-through frames.
The fork is made of steel which helps to dampen vibrations slightly better than an aluminum frame. Of course, steel is heavier than aluminum, but most probably, you won’t even notice the difference when riding the FX1.
Related: Best Commuter Bikes
Wheels and Tires
This bike is set up with 700c wheels, the same diameter as a road bike. But the tires are 35mm wide. These tires are much more robust and comfortable than traditional road bikes, but still, you’ll have the benefits of the big 700c wheels.
The model Trek fitted this model is Bontrager H2 Comp – a smooth hybrid tire for commuting and urban riding. If you use this bike on streets, paths, and light trails, you will be satisfied with this Bontrager tire.
The Brakes
The only downside of this Trek FX1 is the braking system. Trek decided to fit this entry-level model with a simple Tektro alloy linear pull to drag the price down. Don’t get me wrong, the brakes are adequate for this bike, but you can’t compare the stopping power to any other Trek model fitted with disc brakes. The good news is you can buy the FX1 with disc brakes for better stopping.
Read more: Where are Trek Bikes Made?
Speeds and Gear Shifting
The 3 x 7 drivetrain is sound. It makes the bike versatile and ready for climbing hills or fast downhills—the perfect combination of parts for an entry-level hybrid. You can only ask for a little at this price level.
Shimano Altus EF500 provides gear shifting with integrated brake levers. These shifters come with an excellent and visible gear indicator. With your index finger, you go harder, and with the thumb button, you go easier on the right-hand side and the reverse on the left-hand side.
Generally speaking, these integrated shifters are perfect and give a clean look to the bike, but on the downside, you’ll have to change the entire thing if one of the two breaks down.
The Saddle
Towards the back, we’ve got the Bontrager Sports saddle – a comfortable, good-cushy saddle. According to Trek, this saddle brings performance, support, and comfort to the posture four fitness rider. It comes with a complete cutout design which helps to eliminate soft tissue pressure. Overall, an excellent saddle for commuting and fitness.
Where to Buy Trek FX1
Usually, we would suggest buying the Trek FX1 on Trek’s website, but all entry-level bikes have been sold out recently. You can find those bikes in most shops, so check your local one for the FX1. Hopefully, all bikes will soon be available again on Trek’s website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Trek FX1 is a perfect ride for anyone looking for an entry-level hybrid. Casual riding in the park, commuting to work/college, group rides, you name it. The FX1 is a capable bike you can trust and ride for many years.
What about the downside? I’ve found only one minor thing on this bike.
The first one is the disc brakes – this is the only bike in Trek’s lineup that comes without disc brakes and instead has simple linear-pull brakes. Compared to the more expensive Trek bikes, the brake cables are not integrated into the frame. The integrated cables give a clean and premium look to a bicycle.
Trek FX1 Alternatives
If you like the Trek FX1, but think it’s expensive, or you don’t like the colors, we have an excellent selection of similar bikes as alternatives.
Best Trek FX1 Alternatives
Recommended Reads
How Much Does a Bike Fit Cost – read our blog post if you need a professional bike fit but don’t want to spend too much on it. We have some excellent tips plus average prices.
Best Affordable Mountain Bikes – budget mountain bikes are getting better these days. Here are our top picks for 2022.
