Hello everyone! Quick update. I had originally posted the below comment (in quotations) when I first uploaded this video, but I realize that it is not relevant here and I did not explain it well. Wider tires at slightly lower pressures can be faster than thinner tires at higher pressures when comparing 2 road bike tires with each other, but in this case the tires are different enough that it is not very relevant. The Dual Sport's tires will pretty much always be slower than the FX tires due to how many knobs they have for providing extra traction on gravel, while the FX's smoother tires will have less resistance and be able to help you go faster. "The FX bikes do use thinner tires, but in reality the wider tires on the dual sport can provide the same amount of speed if setup at a lower psi. However the FX will still be faster because of the other component differences."
I've been riding a 2009 Trek 7.2 FX for over 10 years, averaging 500-800km a year, and is still going strong. Didn't upgrade anything on it either, except for added rear pannier rack and fenders. Also ran clipless pedals for a while when I also had a road bike.
It should be going strong as that is not that much of riding. 50km is a good few hour Saturday ride, so 10-15 rides like these per year. It will hold strong till year 2035 (except some rubber components and may be drive trains etc) :)
You didn’t upgrade to a road bike yet? Dang I was a trek 7300 (made in usa) rider until I got a road bike. I thought I’d use both but the trek only collects dust now.
@@vaccinatedanti-vaxxer Still using my 7.2 FX. Since I mainly use it for commuting and running errands, I'm a little bit less worried about locking it up outside in the city. I'd like to try a more modern road bike with more comfort features, but I don't have the storage or money to get another bike anyway, and definitely wouldn't use a brand new road bike for commuting.
I chose the fx 2 because I wanted speed over “comfort”. The fx is extremely capable, and can ride most of the same terrain the Dualsport can. The key is learning how to use your own body as the suspension. I tried a Dualsport, but the suspension was pretty useless imo. That being said, buy the bike that’ll make you ride more
Tanishq Sagar if someone wants to buy a road bike for outright speed, and the multiple hand positions for longer rides, I encourage that. I don’t really ever go far enough to warrant a road bike, so hybrids are my preferred bike. That being said, I’m open to trying an entry level road bike in the future, just to see what it’s like
I just rode the dualsport 2 and the fx 2 at the local Trek shop. I found the fx2 more comfortable, faster, and had better brakes (perhaps the brakes are the same but less rotating mass). I went in interested in the dual sport and I left wanting the fx. I too found the dualsport shocks to be almost useless and kept them either locked out or almost locked out but I'm a big dude so a skinny person might disagree. I also have short legs (30" inseam) but I'm 6'2 with gorilla arms. As far as comfort goes I think it all boils down to body shape and preference but I found the fx to be the better bike for speed and comfort
My first bike had front shock forks. I did ride the bike alot on the street. Once in great while I would ride on the dirt. After several years my shocks went out and get a new bike . I got the trek fx It rides really good on the street.
I have had my Trek FX Sport 6 fitness bike since May. My main goal in buying this bike, was trying to get the best of all worlds. A comfortable upright positioning bike with a smooth comfortable ride that is light weight and fast enough to keep up with road bikes. Once I dialed in all the fit adjustments, I had a bike that would allow me to ride more efficiently, a little bit faster, a little bit harder and a little bit longer. With out feeling beat up after my rides. It comes with hydraulic disc brakes. The cables are routed internally, which protects them from the elements and adds to the bike's clean look. FX Sport 6 is the lightest and fastest bike in the FX lineup. It has a lot of the performance feature of a high-end road bike, with the added benefit of a flat handlebar. A lightweight 400 Series OCLV Carbon frame with a road-smoothing IsoSpeed decoupler which means the seat tube is not connected to the top tube or seat stay. It can flex independently to absorb vibration and diminish the fatiguing impacts of the road, allowing the rider to remain fresher longer. It has 700c by 32mm tires that do well on asphalt but not so well on dirt. A 38mm tire will fit if you want to go wider and in the gravel. The group set is Shimano 105 Shifters are R7000 thumb shifters, The crank set has 50/34 chain rings. The cassette is Shimano 105 CS-R7000, it’s an 11 speed 11-32 cassette consisting of a cog configuration of 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 25, 28, 32. Shimano also makes 12 to 25, 11 to 28 and 11 to 30 configuration cassettes so you can customize this if you would like a tighter group in your cassette. It has a place in the chainstay to install a DuoTrap integrated sensor that wirelessly transmits ANT+ and Bluetooth® Smart signals to your computer or phone. The frame is stiff and responsive. The carbon fiber does a good job absorbing some of the vibration you get from the road. I always overdue things so I have changed the handlebars to Trekking bars, installed a red shift shock stop seat post suspension, as well as a Kinekt handlebar suspension stem to take care of whatever the frame and the IsoSpeed de-coupler doesn't. The bike sells for $2,099 and is worth every penny!
@@TalalipopMTB Those are the details your viewers want to know when you are reviewing a bike. I looked everywhere for them, like the cassette cog configuration that came standard and could not find it anywhere online. You have a great channel!
Mostly complete. BUT when you get the the 3 Series The FX3 has a carbon Fork, different grips and upgraded derailleurs. Small jump in price, larger jump in components.
For anyone wanting to know it’s possible to have your Trek store swap out the grips on the FX 2 with those on the FX 3 if that is the only point of consideration between the 2 and 3. As of June 2021 the gel grips are $49 per set from Trek.
Thanks - nice comparison, I bought a 2020 DS2 to ride back in March. I have a carbon Orbea trail bike but I needed a different bike for local city, park trails and gravel country roads. A few upgrades (saddle, egron grips, gravel tires, nice flat pedals) and she's exactly what you say: just right for 50% road / 50% gravel. The front fork and geometry are perfect for that. I ride it pretty hard and honestly, I have zero problems with it and it was 1/5th the cost of my Orbea even after all the upgrades and accessories!
Personally, I like describing bikes like the FX as a “fitness” bike instead of a “hybrid”, mainly because it’s much more like a road bike than a mountain bike. “Hybrid” is a much more fitting description of the Dual-Sport imo. And funny enough, I think it’s strange that the Dual-Sport and other “hybrid” bikes aren’t referred to as a type of Gravel bike. I know this style predates the “gravel” term, but they are pretty much just a flatbar gravel bike of sorts.
Thanks for posting this. The TREK website absolutely sucks if you're trying to figure out the differences between bikes lines and individual models in each line..
Thank you! Also I'm sorry to hear that :( the verve isn't too far off from the dual sport at least, but maybe in the future you could end up selling it and getting the DS, especially since right now a lot of people seem to be wanting bikes.
I actually owned both of these bikes, bought around 2017. The DS cost $800 plus tax, the FX $299, tax included. For whatever reason, the Dual Sport never felt comfortable, even with the front suspension. I put maybe a few hundred miles on the DS, and a couple thousand on the FX. In fact I just sold the DS and the FX is my daily ride. Even with a brand new ebike in my garage that cost 2 grand, the FX still gets the nod. That's how great this bike is.
Very interesting! I personally don’t like the suspension on the dual sports anyways since it’s pretty cheap and doesn’t work great. Cool to meet someone who’s experienced both models extensively
Thanks for making this video, wasn't aware they still made the dual sport riding a 2016 model, rn Was told the bicycle was "worn" by a mechanic was interested to see what i might want to get next, maybe after another 2,500 miles into this new drive train.
Anyone wondering which to buy in 2022 here's my honest opinion: I've been riding 29 MTB for years, but I wanted something faster. Not exactly a road bike but a hybrid that can go on light trails. I looked at Marlin, FX , and FX sport. I've decided to go with the FX 3 Disc for 1000$. After riding it for 4-5 hours today, I have many things to say. First, bike is super uncomfortable. The whole thing is designed so you naturally have to lean to the handlebar which is very narrow, much narrower than a normal MTB , making it seem and feel small. The handlebar rubber whatever u call it is made of some kind of stupid cheap transparent plastic rubber that when your hands are sweaty get wet and slippery. Moreover the same handle bar rubber thingies have this weird hand rest on them that supposed to be comfortable well it's not. After a while it stinks. Second, the wheels are technically 29s but they are smaller than a 29. I immediately noticed it and compared to my MTB it's much smaller. Speed is supposed to be big on this bike but because the wheel is not a real 29 it has basically the same speed as my 29 MTB. There isn't much difference. It rolls a little better on streets but that's it. Not a significant boost. Third, pedals are cheap hard plastic. Forth, seatpost is not adjustable which is abso fucking lootely ridiculous on a 1000$ bike from a big company vs a cheap Walmart bike 100$ has one. Bull fucking shit. Wanna change your seat height? Pls bring an Allen key. Forth, the bike has no suspension, but it's supposedly a hybrid bike right? So should handle bumps ok right? Nope. Even small street bumps feel terrible and sharp on you without suspension. Handlebar is advertised as shock absorbing but it ain't absorbing anything. And last, the breaks are hydraulic, but my 650$ MTB has a much more snappy and stronger breaks than this. And both were set up by experienced shop. Just picked up the FX 3 Disc today, traveled 2 hours for it. Tomorrow morning I'm biking back to the store and returning it. It's super disappointing.
So what bike did you but instead? That's why I'm reluctant to buy the fx 3 because of the forward riding position. Do you think the Ds3 would be a better option?
@@MrRai101 I didn't buy another bike. I already had my old Diamondback 29er which works fine. I only wanted the trek bike because it was supposed to be crazy fast and lightweight. Yes, absolutely get the dual sport. Don't buy a bike without suspension fork. Unless you live in a city with 100% perfect straight roads and you only want to ride on perfect asphalt. I felt every single little bump on the fx3 due to lack of suspension, and every time i felt like i would loose control. It was to be a hybrid bike, but it's obviously just a hyped up road bike. Get one with suspension fork. Dual sport or marlin series or a diamondback if you want to save money.
@@CaptainPupu thanks for the feedback. Yes I can imagine the fx 3 not being the most comfortable of bikes. I'm more of a casual rider living in England where the roads aren't always that great. So I'm probably going to buy the ds3 or a maybe a specialized x 3.0 which runs much bigger tyre's than the fx. Happy MTB riding :)
@Joe Kinchicken I have a 7 speed Nexus hub a with a Gates Carbon belt drive on a bike made by Brilliant bicycle company . Top end speed is not the issue , it is the low gears that are limited if you need to do any climbing . Fortunately I live in the Florida panhandle so my rides are mostly flat , I just would prefer the frame geometry of the FX .
Hey mate, loving the content. Very handy for some of us newer guys who aren’t too educated on all the different models and their purposes etc. do you think you could also do some comparisons with Specialized? Specifically, the Epics and Epic Evos? Cheers.
This is a tough choice. I am going to be test riding both soon to see which I prefer. My use will largely be commuting/ going to town/ going to the gym etc so would maybe assume the FX. However I also want to get a pannier rack so I can carry some loads too - which the DS looks maybe better for (from what I have researched so far). Let’s see how I get on with the testing.
@@bryandasilva5318 hey - I tested both and both bikes seemed comfortable rides. I remember preferring the DS, but in the end I chose not to get one. Thought again and didn’t feel like I needed one that much! So my decision wasn’t based on the actual bikes, just more my personal circumstance.
Just ordered my FX 2 yesterday with eta in September 2021 - it’s mid June now. I feel lucky however, I overheard the sale next to me being quoted December eta for a different model. I’m super excited to get my Trek! Great video even though I’m watching after the point of doing pre-purchase research 🧐
I’ve been riding a bmx bike with a 21” top tube and 20” wheels for 10 years. To avoid further injuries I’m transitioning to a hybrid and am strongly considering the FX 3. I’ve also considered the dual sport but the biggest difference to me seems to be the from suspension. I don’t see enough benefit in having front suspension to justify the weight difference and complication of suspension forks. Am I wrong?
The dual sport also has wider tires and the geometry makes it more upright so it’ll be more comfortable overall. I personally don’t like the suspension forks on the dual sports since they’re cheap and heavy, so I agree with you on that. The 2023 Dual sports got rid of those front forks now (just released a video on those) so that’s a better option too
Absolutely great video !!! But what i have noticed is that the ds2 is more useful , comfortable, on most all tarain than the fx. I also guess with a bit thiner tyre on the ds you could get bit more speed , once that its slower. End of the day its up to the person ,how often does trails, road, dirt, and how often the use of the above. But have yo say again very good comparison of both bikes !!! Keep up the great work !!?
I thought so as well, until my FX 3’s seat post broke when I took on some bumpy terrain! 😳 Not the bikes fault, I was taking it somewhere that it didn’t belong!
I really enjoyed your video, many thanks. The from suspension fork made my mind up, agree with others about speed bumps and generally bad road conditions, plus I would like to travel on moderate tracks. I have ordered the last DS 3 2021 model available in Melb this year, it arrives in Dec 2020, the next available was Mar 2021. Top video and great presentation, i just subscribed.
Thanks friend, In this video, I would say that both bikes are the same, but again I would choose fx disc. for the simple fact that the frame can be converted in the future, in a gravel bike or simirlarly. I would be left wondering what is the maximum width of wheel that fx disc supports. That way, if the fx disc is too uncomfortable you can install more balloon tires. The question is to find out the maximum width. In any case, thanks for the video, I will wait for the next one. Could we see some video with giant escape?
I buy Giant bikes because that's what my local bike shop sells, but I swear they are the same bikes with different brands. My Escape 2 disk looks exactly the same including the frame, and cost the same.
Trek recently came out with the gen 5 dual sport which does away with the suspension fork. So now im wondering what is the difference now. Is it just the tires? Love your videos by the way.
Is the speed and weight noticeably different between the two? I’m willing to give up a little bit of speed for comfort, but if differences are noticeable ima just stick with the FX because I want the speed but also I’d like to be able to ride light trails on my adventures which is why I’m conflicted between the two
The trails that you will be riding on the dual sport will be very light indeed. It is just a touch above a street bike. The term "dual" is very misleading.
I found the fx to be more comfortable and a lot quicker. The dualsport shocks had to be locked out or almost locked out on smooth pavement but I'm a heavy guy
I should have went I bed 2 hours ago but I’ve been watching your vids lol. Thanks they have been very helpful especially this video. 3 Quicks question for you, can the dual fork be locked? Can these both pull a baby trailer, and if so which one do you think would be better to do so? Thanks.
HAHA I appreciate your support! The Dual Sport 2 and above should have lockouts, but the DS 1 does not. Both bikes have many mounting points so they should both be able to pull a trailer, but in terms of which one is better I'm not entirely sure. The FX is lighter so with the added weight of the trailer that one might be better, though you might have some more stability with the DS since it has wider tires and the suspension. Probably isn't a huge difference though!
I have a trek 7.1 fx, I'm wondering if going for 700x40c tyres would add a bit of a bounce to the ride on rough roads rather than going for a dual sport to get the suspension?
Hey! I know this is an old video but would love for you to respond. I mostly ride on the pavement and sidewalks and sometimes on gravel. I'm either buying a 2022 FX or 2022 Dual Sport as of tomorrow. I was wondering if the FX would be okay with some bumps and gravel considering it's light frame. Or do you think I should purchase the Dual Sport to maximise comfort and versatility. I am not worried about losing some speed. Thank-you so much for your time!
@@mrsmokingskittles148 Well, the short story is I ended up getting the FX 3 and found that everyone that complains about the cracks in sidewalks and potholes is nothing on the FX 3, as the handle bars absorb the shocks so well and so does the carbon fork. Funny thing is, I actually bought the DS3 as I was worried about going on grass, gravel and bumps. However, I found the suspension fork unnecessary for the rides I was going for, so I swapped it for the FX3 and am so glad I did! You can definitely notice that it feels lighter and you can reach higher speeds. So, if your mostly riding on pavements and roads with some gravel and grass, (i found it rides well on all these surfaces) get the FX 3! I hope that my response helps and you get the bike that suits your needs!
@@liltherapprodigy5742 Hey I was wondering about the geometry of both bikes. It seems like the ds3 has a more of an upright riding position than the fx3? I'm not that interested in speed, but looking for a more comfortable commuter. Did you notice much difference between the two?
@@MrRai101 Yes, I do notice that I lean more forward with the FX 3, though I still find it comfortable. Even when I go for hour long rides and come back home, I don't have any issues with my back. But yes, the FX3 has a more aggressive stance and it is more noticeable, but not to the extent where I feel uncomfortable riding the bike.
Hi, I am vivek from India, I have to choose between fx3 and dulesport 3 bikes, I have to do long 50-150 km ride on road. Two concerns ... what will be the speed difference ( I consider fx is little faster... But how much) second how is the carbon fork compared to suspension of duel sport. ( will carbon fork is at least half as effective as suspension on bad roads pot holes.. etc.)
I’ve got a 2007 fx9,it still looks modern today apart from it doesn’t have an electric motor so you have to actually propel it forward all by yourself 😏
Ok. I think I have decided on the dual sport. How bad is it to get a bike from a different shop (like out of town), but ask my LBS to repair/service it? Thank you for your supremely thorough comparisons/information.
Not bad in my opinion! You’re still supporting your local shop and I’m sure they understand because they didn’t have the bike you wanted. If they sell that same bike in their store or similar bikes to that one it’s even easier :)
I've watching a few videos lately where different tire widths were being tested at different speeds and to my surprise the wider tire was quicker than the thinner one. 😲😲
Those bikes both use the same aluminum for construction so one is probably not too noticeably stiffer than the other, but considering the bikes as a whole the FX is stiffer because of the rigid front fork. Both bikes have a maximum weight limit of 300 pounds or 136 kilograms.
I noticed that there is a ready mounting bolt on the side of the fork of FX1... Can you please tell us where is that for? Thanks for a good and informative video.
Two mounts, one center fork, one behind the fork dropout. You could use them to mount fenders, and/or front rack. I mounted fenders and an Axiom lowrider to my V-Brake FX-1 (not sure about disc models, the disc might interfere with the lower mount non-drive side).
This market is over complicated imo… these manufacturers should slim down the millions “options” that are all actually really similar & rather give us a good range price-wise & good quality/value for the price(s)
Great video, thank you very much, I tried both bikes and I found dual sport better for riding in the roads of Toronto, because most of the roads are bumpy
I just purchased a fx3 I wanted a ds 3 or 4 but nothing available till later this year they say, wondering if you know where or if I could purchase the fork assembly with the shocks ? Thanks Mike 😊
Interesting. Trek specifies that the maximum tire clearance without fenders is 38mm. Tires often run smaller than advertised. What make and model of tire are you running? This might be interesting to anyone here wondering how big a tire they can fit in their FX bikes.
Hello everyone! Quick update. I had originally posted the below comment (in quotations) when I first uploaded this video, but I realize that it is not relevant here and I did not explain it well. Wider tires at slightly lower pressures can be faster than thinner tires at higher pressures when comparing 2 road bike tires with each other, but in this case the tires are different enough that it is not very relevant. The Dual Sport's tires will pretty much always be slower than the FX tires due to how many knobs they have for providing extra traction on gravel, while the FX's smoother tires will have less resistance and be able to help you go faster.
"The FX bikes do use thinner tires, but in reality the wider tires on the dual sport can provide the same amount of speed if setup at a lower psi. However the FX will still be faster because of the other component differences."
Am trying to decide on which bike to get. When you say faster... my question is how faster ?
Could you please do a video on the Trek 820?
@@jonathanb1987 I haven't had anyone ask that before! I'll consider it :)
@@TalalipopMTB thanks!
Harder tires ( inflate to max) roll easier! If you want to prove it to yourself - just put 15 psi and take a ride.
Your videos have been EXTREMELY helpful in figuring out which bike to buy hubby for his birthday, great work, thank you!!!
Aw thank you!!
I've been riding a 2009 Trek 7.2 FX for over 10 years, averaging 500-800km a year, and is still going strong. Didn't upgrade anything on it either, except for added rear pannier rack and fenders. Also ran clipless pedals for a while when I also had a road bike.
It should be going strong as that is not that much of riding. 50km is a good few hour Saturday ride, so 10-15 rides like these per year. It will hold strong till year 2035 (except some rubber components and may be drive trains etc) :)
You didn’t upgrade to a road bike yet? Dang I was a trek 7300 (made in usa) rider until I got a road bike. I thought I’d use both but the trek only collects dust now.
@@vaccinatedanti-vaxxer Still using my 7.2 FX. Since I mainly use it for commuting and running errands, I'm a little bit less worried about locking it up outside in the city.
I'd like to try a more modern road bike with more comfort features, but I don't have the storage or money to get another bike anyway, and definitely wouldn't use a brand new road bike for commuting.
I chose the fx 2 because I wanted speed over “comfort”. The fx is extremely capable, and can ride most of the same terrain the Dualsport can. The key is learning how to use your own body as the suspension. I tried a Dualsport, but the suspension was pretty useless imo. That being said, buy the bike that’ll make you ride more
why not buy a road bike then?
Tanishq Sagar if someone wants to buy a road bike for outright speed, and the multiple hand positions for longer rides, I encourage that. I don’t really ever go far enough to warrant a road bike, so hybrids are my preferred bike. That being said, I’m open to trying an entry level road bike in the future, just to see what it’s like
Yes ..ride more
I just rode the dualsport 2 and the fx 2 at the local Trek shop. I found the fx2 more comfortable, faster, and had better brakes (perhaps the brakes are the same but less rotating mass). I went in interested in the dual sport and I left wanting the fx. I too found the dualsport shocks to be almost useless and kept them either locked out or almost locked out but I'm a big dude so a skinny person might disagree. I also have short legs (30" inseam) but I'm 6'2 with gorilla arms. As far as comfort goes I think it all boils down to body shape and preference but I found the fx to be the better bike for speed and comfort
Is it good for some light trails?
My first bike had front shock forks. I did ride the bike alot on the street. Once in great while I would ride on the dirt. After several years my shocks went out and get a new bike . I got the trek fx It rides really good on the street.
You should have way more subs this is simple and straight to the point.
Thank you!! I appreciate that :)
@@TalalipopMTB too bad you only do one brand
Very good comparison of the Trek models and summary of the "road vs. Gravel or mountain " basics. I Appreciate your time.
Thank you!! I appreciate you watching as well :)
I have had my Trek FX Sport 6 fitness bike since May.
My main goal in buying this bike, was trying to get the best of all worlds. A comfortable upright positioning bike with a smooth comfortable ride that is light weight and fast enough to keep up with road bikes.
Once I dialed in all the fit adjustments, I had a bike that would allow me to ride more efficiently, a little bit faster, a little bit harder and a little bit longer. With out feeling beat up after my rides.
It comes with hydraulic disc brakes. The cables are routed internally, which protects them from the elements and adds to the bike's clean look.
FX Sport 6 is the lightest and fastest bike in the FX lineup. It has a lot of the performance feature of a high-end road bike, with the added benefit of a flat handlebar. A lightweight 400 Series OCLV Carbon frame with a road-smoothing IsoSpeed decoupler which means the seat tube is not connected to the top tube or seat stay. It can flex independently to absorb vibration and diminish the fatiguing impacts of the road, allowing the rider to remain fresher longer.
It has 700c by 32mm tires that do well on asphalt but not so well on dirt. A 38mm tire will fit if you want to go wider and in the gravel.
The group set is Shimano 105
Shifters are R7000 thumb shifters,
The crank set has 50/34 chain rings.
The cassette is Shimano 105 CS-R7000, it’s an 11 speed 11-32 cassette consisting of a cog configuration of 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 25, 28, 32.
Shimano also makes 12 to 25, 11 to 28 and 11 to 30 configuration cassettes so you can customize this if you would like a tighter group in your cassette.
It has a place in the chainstay to install a DuoTrap integrated sensor that wirelessly transmits ANT+ and Bluetooth® Smart signals to your computer or phone.
The frame is stiff and responsive. The carbon fiber does a good job absorbing some of the vibration you get from the road. I always overdue things so I have changed the handlebars to Trekking bars, installed a red shift shock stop seat post suspension, as well as a Kinekt handlebar suspension stem to take care of whatever the frame and the IsoSpeed de-coupler doesn't.
The bike sells for $2,099 and is worth every penny!
Wow nice description!! I agree and I'm so glad you're enjoying the bike!
@@TalalipopMTB Those are the details your viewers want to know when you are reviewing a bike.
I looked everywhere for them, like the cassette cog configuration that came standard and could not find it anywhere online.
You have a great channel!
Thank you!
Mostly complete. BUT when you get the the 3 Series The FX3 has a carbon Fork, different grips and upgraded derailleurs. Small jump in price, larger jump in components.
For anyone wanting to know it’s possible to have your Trek store swap out the grips on the FX 2 with those on the FX 3 if that is the only point of consideration between the 2 and 3. As of June 2021 the gel grips are $49 per set from Trek.
@@user-bn7cg5kz9p the fx3 does have a carbon fork which significantly improves weight and movement ability. only correction i had to point out
Congrats on hitting 2k sub, I swear you were at 500 last week. At this rate you will become sponsored by trek in no time. Keep up the good work.
Thanks!! I hope so :)
This comment aged well
An A+ presentation. Very well put together, keep it up.
Thank you!!
I went with Dualsport for the suspensions.
Thanks - nice comparison, I bought a 2020 DS2 to ride back in March. I have a carbon Orbea trail bike but I needed a different bike for local city, park trails and gravel country roads. A few upgrades (saddle, egron grips, gravel tires, nice flat pedals) and she's exactly what you say: just right for 50% road / 50% gravel. The front fork and geometry are perfect for that. I ride it pretty hard and honestly, I have zero problems with it and it was 1/5th the cost of my Orbea even after all the upgrades and accessories!
Nice!!
I'm now getting the dual sport 4. thanks you Talalipop.
No problem :D
Good luck finding one ✌️
Great vid, im not interested in the bikes but your comparasions are really great
Aw thank you :)
The Dual Sport seems to be the way I'm leaning , thank you for posting this video .
Thanks for the video. I just ordered a 2021 Dual Sport 3 women’s - can’t wait for it to come in to my local bike store.
Thanks for the quick and to the point analysis. So hard to buy a bike right now just crazy....anyone else over the Corona mess...ugh.
You're welcome! And yeah I definitely agree with that.
Great video. I own an fx bike and your video is helping me make a decision for buying my next bike.
Glad it could help!
Fine review, especially for someone setting out to understand these bikes and make a selection among hybrids. Tks.
Thank you too!
Great analysis. This video has persuaded me to go with the Dual Sport, seems like the perfect mix of being good on and off-road.
Thank you! And yes those bikes are awesome :)
Why am I barely finding your channel. Good work 👍🏽
Thank you!
Personally, I like describing bikes like the FX as a “fitness” bike instead of a “hybrid”, mainly because it’s much more like a road bike than a mountain bike. “Hybrid” is a much more fitting description of the Dual-Sport imo.
And funny enough, I think it’s strange that the Dual-Sport and other “hybrid” bikes aren’t referred to as a type of Gravel bike. I know this style predates the “gravel” term, but they are pretty much just a flatbar gravel bike of sorts.
Thanks for posting this. The TREK website absolutely sucks if you're trying to figure out the differences between bikes lines and individual models in each line..
Great video! I wish you can do an update video for the newest versions of the FX and dual sport because the dual sport got rid of the front suspension
good job explaining differences. I just bought my first Trek, a verve. Now after your video, I wish I bought a Dual Sport :(
Thank you! Also I'm sorry to hear that :( the verve isn't too far off from the dual sport at least, but maybe in the future you could end up selling it and getting the DS, especially since right now a lot of people seem to be wanting bikes.
Nice, concise review. You helped me with my buying decision. Thank you. 👍
You’re welcome!
I actually owned both of these bikes, bought around 2017. The DS cost $800 plus tax, the FX $299, tax included. For whatever reason, the Dual Sport never felt comfortable, even with the front suspension. I put maybe a few hundred miles on the DS, and a couple thousand on the FX. In fact I just sold the DS and the FX is my daily ride. Even with a brand new ebike in my garage that cost 2 grand, the FX still gets the nod. That's how great this bike is.
Very interesting! I personally don’t like the suspension on the dual sports anyways since it’s pretty cheap and doesn’t work great. Cool to meet someone who’s experienced both models extensively
Thanks for the great info. I'm trying to make up my mind on a new bike and your video is making it easier.
You’re welcome! Happy it helped :)
Nice video dude , i am about to get the FX 3 .
Thanks !
Nice! Hope you like it :)
I actually bought the FX 4 two months ago.
HOW IS IT SO FAR ?
Helpful review! Thanks.
No problem! Glad it helped
I was impressed by the beauty of the dual sports silhouette and bought it.
Thanks for making this video, wasn't aware they still made the dual sport riding a 2016 model, rn Was told the bicycle was "worn" by a mechanic was interested to see what i might want to get next, maybe after another 2,500 miles into this new drive train.
Anyone wondering which to buy in 2022 here's my honest opinion: I've been riding 29 MTB for years, but I wanted something faster. Not exactly a road bike but a hybrid that can go on light trails. I looked at Marlin, FX , and FX sport. I've decided to go with the FX 3 Disc for 1000$. After riding it for 4-5 hours today, I have many things to say.
First, bike is super uncomfortable.
The whole thing is designed so you naturally have to lean to the handlebar which is very narrow, much narrower than a normal MTB , making it seem and feel small. The handlebar rubber whatever u call it is made of some kind of stupid cheap transparent plastic rubber that when your hands are sweaty get wet and slippery. Moreover the same handle bar rubber thingies have this weird hand rest on them that supposed to be comfortable well it's not. After a while it stinks.
Second, the wheels are technically 29s but they are smaller than a 29. I immediately noticed it and compared to my MTB it's much smaller. Speed is supposed to be big on this bike but because the wheel is not a real 29 it has basically the same speed as my 29 MTB. There isn't much difference. It rolls a little better on streets but that's it. Not a significant boost.
Third, pedals are cheap hard plastic.
Forth, seatpost is not adjustable which is abso fucking lootely ridiculous on a 1000$ bike from a big company vs a cheap Walmart bike 100$ has one. Bull fucking shit. Wanna change your seat height? Pls bring an Allen key.
Forth, the bike has no suspension, but it's supposedly a hybrid bike right? So should handle bumps ok right? Nope. Even small street bumps feel terrible and sharp on you without suspension. Handlebar is advertised as shock absorbing but it ain't absorbing anything.
And last, the breaks are hydraulic, but my 650$ MTB has a much more snappy and stronger breaks than this. And both were set up by experienced shop.
Just picked up the FX 3 Disc today, traveled 2 hours for it. Tomorrow morning I'm biking back to the store and returning it. It's super disappointing.
So what bike did you but instead? That's why I'm reluctant to buy the fx 3 because of the forward riding position. Do you think the Ds3 would be a better option?
@@MrRai101 I didn't buy another bike. I already had my old Diamondback 29er which works fine. I only wanted the trek bike because it was supposed to be crazy fast and lightweight.
Yes, absolutely get the dual sport. Don't buy a bike without suspension fork. Unless you live in a city with 100% perfect straight roads and you only want to ride on perfect asphalt. I felt every single little bump on the fx3 due to lack of suspension, and every time i felt like i would loose control. It was to be a hybrid bike, but it's obviously just a hyped up road bike. Get one with suspension fork. Dual sport or marlin series or a diamondback if you want to save money.
@@CaptainPupu thanks for the feedback. Yes I can imagine the fx 3 not being the most comfortable of bikes. I'm more of a casual rider living in England where the roads aren't always that great. So I'm probably going to buy the ds3 or a maybe a specialized x 3.0 which runs much bigger tyre's than the fx. Happy MTB riding :)
Hey bro! Just subscribed and screen recorded it so I can prove that I subbed to you at 2k subs when you are famous!
Hahaha aw yay!
Thank you for this video. I'm picking up a DS2
Good choice I
I would like to see the FX series come out with a version that uses the Gates Carbon belt drive 👍
@Joe Kinchicken I have a 7 speed Nexus hub a with a Gates Carbon belt drive on a bike made by Brilliant bicycle company . Top end speed is not the issue , it is the low gears that are limited if you need to do any climbing . Fortunately I live in the Florida panhandle so my rides are mostly flat , I just would prefer the frame geometry of the FX .
Thank you. Trek employees should watch this. I have both 2016 models and I'm looking to upgrade. Think I going verve now.
Thank you too!
Hey mate, loving the content. Very handy for some of us newer guys who aren’t too educated on all the different models and their purposes etc. do you think you could also do some comparisons with Specialized? Specifically, the Epics and Epic Evos? Cheers.
Yeah I’m thinking about it now since a lot of people are asking. I’ll look into those soon hopefully!
Talalipop MTB sounds good. hopefully you’ll get sponsored by one of them eventually 😉
This is a tough choice. I am going to be test riding both soon to see which I prefer. My use will largely be commuting/ going to town/ going to the gym etc so would maybe assume the FX. However I also want to get a pannier rack so I can carry some loads too - which the DS looks maybe better for (from what I have researched so far). Let’s see how I get on with the testing.
Howd it go? which one did you prefer and end up purchasing
@@bryandasilva5318 hey - I tested both and both bikes seemed comfortable rides. I remember preferring the DS, but in the end I chose not to get one. Thought again and didn’t feel like I needed one that much! So my decision wasn’t based on the actual bikes, just more my personal circumstance.
Just ordered my FX 2 yesterday with eta in September 2021 - it’s mid June now. I feel lucky however, I overheard the sale next to me being quoted December eta for a different model. I’m super excited to get my Trek! Great video even though I’m watching after the point of doing pre-purchase research 🧐
Hahaha thank you!! And yeah ETAs are insane right now for bikes; glad it should be coming sooner than others though!
@Nonya BiZz I’m sorry to hear that! I’ll keep my fingers crossed! 🤞
How is the Fx
I’ve been riding a bmx bike with a 21” top tube and 20” wheels for 10 years. To avoid further injuries I’m transitioning to a hybrid and am strongly considering the FX 3. I’ve also considered the dual sport but the biggest difference to me seems to be the from suspension. I don’t see enough benefit in having front suspension to justify the weight difference and complication of suspension forks. Am I wrong?
The dual sport also has wider tires and the geometry makes it more upright so it’ll be more comfortable overall. I personally don’t like the suspension forks on the dual sports since they’re cheap and heavy, so I agree with you on that. The 2023 Dual sports got rid of those front forks now (just released a video on those) so that’s a better option too
This helped me decide between the 2 styles. I will be buying a FX 4 Carbon. Thank You!
You’re welcome! Thank you for watching :)
brilliant review, you've just made my mind up.
Thank you :)
Absolutely great video !!! But what i have noticed is that the ds2 is more useful , comfortable, on most all tarain than the fx. I also guess with a bit thiner tyre on the ds you could get bit more speed , once that its slower. End of the day its up to the person ,how often does trails, road, dirt, and how often the use of the above. But have yo say again very good comparison of both bikes !!! Keep up the great work !!?
Thank you!!
I❤️my FX. The FX can do everything
I thought so as well, until my FX 3’s seat post broke when I took on some bumpy terrain! 😳 Not the bikes fault, I was taking it somewhere that it didn’t belong!
Excellent review and provides the comparison I was looking for.
Great video just need the uk shops to get them in stock now
Nice videos! can you please do a comparison with Trek Verve?
Hello. Do you know if the DS G5 is good for the city, for every day use? (I have a old Dahon Boardwalk). Thanks.
Was waiting for this one- thanks
I really enjoyed your video, many thanks. The from suspension fork made my mind up, agree with others about speed bumps and generally bad road conditions, plus I would like to travel on moderate tracks. I have ordered the last DS 3 2021 model available in Melb this year, it arrives in Dec 2020, the next available was Mar 2021. Top video and great presentation, i just subscribed.
Great video bud. These are the exact to bikes I’m looking at. Thanks!
You’re welcome!
thanks for the great reviews! simple and to the point
Thank you!
Talalipop, excellent video as always...thanks for your research, it is very helpful.
Thanks man!!
Thanks friend, In this video, I would say that both bikes are the same, but again I would choose fx disc. for the simple fact that the frame can be converted in the future, in a gravel bike or simirlarly.
I would be left wondering what is the maximum width of wheel that fx disc supports. That way, if the fx disc is too uncomfortable you can install more balloon tires. The question is to find out the maximum width. In any case, thanks for the video, I will wait for the next one. Could we see some video with giant escape?
Just an amazing job. Shut out from Perú. Keep going the same way :)
Thank you!! :)
Shout* not shut.
I buy Giant bikes because that's what my local bike shop sells, but I swear they are the same bikes with different brands. My Escape 2 disk looks exactly the same including the frame, and cost the same.
this is really helpful! save me lots of time. good information as well!
Thank you!! Happy I could help out :)
Trek recently came out with the gen 5 dual sport which does away with the suspension fork. So now im wondering what is the difference now. Is it just the tires? Love your videos by the way.
I've made a few videos recently on the new dual sports if that helps!
Fx 2 uses a cassette where as some dual sport uses a freewheel
These videos are really handy. Thank you
You’re welcome :)
Thanks for showing the difference 😊
Great job! Clear and detailed. Thank you.
Glad you liked it!
I just got a Top Fuel but need another bike for commuting to work. I'm leaning toward a cheap dual sport. Thank you for the video, it helps!
No problem! Glad I could help :)
How did that go?
Great video! You actuality helped me by answering my questions and didn't confuse me more like the others. Thank you!
Awesome!! Glad I could help out :D
@@TalalipopMTB the DS 3 is the one for me in gray. Now I have try to find one, lol.
@@NELSONG12 Hahaha yeah that's unfortunately the hard part now :(
Is the speed and weight noticeably different between the two? I’m willing to give up a little bit of speed for comfort, but if differences are noticeable ima just stick with the FX because I want the speed but also I’d like to be able to ride light trails on my adventures which is why I’m conflicted between the two
The trails that you will be riding on the dual sport will be very light indeed. It is just a touch above a street bike. The term "dual" is very misleading.
I found the fx to be more comfortable and a lot quicker. The dualsport shocks had to be locked out or almost locked out on smooth pavement but I'm a heavy guy
Great and informative video. Can front shocks be attached
to the Trek fx, instead of the steel forks ?
Can I change the tires on the dual sport 1 to the fx 1 tires? I like the suspension on the dual but I would like to go faster that’s why I ask. Thanks
I should have went I bed 2 hours ago but I’ve been watching your vids lol. Thanks they have been very helpful especially this video. 3 Quicks question for you, can the dual fork be locked? Can these both pull a baby trailer, and if so which one do you think would be better to do so? Thanks.
HAHA I appreciate your support! The Dual Sport 2 and above should have lockouts, but the DS 1 does not. Both bikes have many mounting points so they should both be able to pull a trailer, but in terms of which one is better I'm not entirely sure. The FX is lighter so with the added weight of the trailer that one might be better, though you might have some more stability with the DS since it has wider tires and the suspension. Probably isn't a huge difference though!
I have a trek 7.1 fx, I'm wondering if going for 700x40c tyres would add a bit of a bounce to the ride on rough roads rather than going for a dual sport to get the suspension?
awesome vids bro, Appreciate the effort you put into these.
Thanks! I appreciate you watching!
This was good!!👍👍👍 3 in orange!! wow👍 Subbed. I think the Ds just easier on the hands.🤔🤔
Thanks :DD
When your over 60, suspension is the only way to go.
how would you compare a Dual sport to the X-Calibre, i currently ride an X-Cal but i'm thinking of getting a DS for commuting. are the DS much faster?
Hey! I know this is an old video but would love for you to respond. I mostly ride on the pavement and sidewalks and sometimes on gravel. I'm either buying a 2022 FX or 2022 Dual Sport as of tomorrow. I was wondering if the FX would be okay with some bumps and gravel considering it's light frame. Or do you think I should purchase the Dual Sport to maximise comfort and versatility. I am not worried about losing some speed.
Thank-you so much for your time!
What did you get and why?
@@mrsmokingskittles148 Well, the short story is I ended up getting the FX 3 and found that everyone that complains about the cracks in sidewalks and potholes is nothing on the FX 3, as the handle bars absorb the shocks so well and so does the carbon fork.
Funny thing is, I actually bought the DS3 as I was worried about going on grass, gravel and bumps. However, I found the suspension fork unnecessary for the rides I was going for, so I swapped it for the FX3 and am so glad I did! You can definitely notice that it feels lighter and you can reach higher speeds.
So, if your mostly riding on pavements and roads with some gravel and grass, (i found it rides well on all these surfaces) get the FX 3!
I hope that my response helps and you get the bike that suits your needs!
@@liltherapprodigy5742
Hey I was wondering about the geometry of both bikes. It seems like the ds3 has a more of an upright riding position than the fx3? I'm not that interested in speed, but looking for a more comfortable commuter. Did you notice much difference between the two?
@@MrRai101 Yes, I do notice that I lean more forward with the FX 3, though I still find it comfortable.
Even when I go for hour long rides and come back home, I don't have any issues with my back.
But yes, the FX3 has a more aggressive stance and it is more noticeable, but not to the extent where I feel uncomfortable riding the bike.
@@MrRai101 I'm actually on a ride rn with the bike and my back is fine
Hi,
I enjoyed your video and detailed explanation between the two bikes.
Thank you,
Denise Dunn
Columbia, MD
Thank you! I appreciate it :)
Exactly what I needed. Thanks!
Of course!
To adjust for more upright position, it is easy to change the stem on FX and Duo Sport models?
How about Verve vs FX? looking for something to ride around town for fun and exercise and that has a step through, Thanks!
Verve if step through is a must. I found Verve rather sluggish compared to FX.
Hi, I am vivek from India, I have to choose between fx3 and dulesport 3 bikes, I have to do long 50-150 km ride on road. Two concerns ... what will be the speed difference ( I consider fx is little faster... But how much) second how is the carbon fork compared to suspension of duel sport. ( will carbon fork is at least half as effective as suspension on bad roads pot holes.. etc.)
I’ve got a 2007 fx9,it still looks modern today apart from it doesn’t have an electric motor so you have to actually propel it forward all by yourself 😏
This was a great video! I just want to know how is the posture compared in the two models. I tried fx 2 once, and it felt too much upright.
Ok. I think I have decided on the dual sport. How bad is it to get a bike from a different shop (like out of town), but ask my LBS to repair/service it?
Thank you for your supremely thorough comparisons/information.
Not bad in my opinion! You’re still supporting your local shop and I’m sure they understand because they didn’t have the bike you wanted. If they sell that same bike in their store or similar bikes to that one it’s even easier :)
The Dual Sport, with front suspension and wider tires costs more to produce than the FX. Seems the dual sport is a better value
I've watching a few videos lately where different tire widths were being tested at different speeds and to my surprise the wider tire was quicker than the thinner one. 😲😲
Trek FX 2 and Trek Dual Sport 2, which have a stiffer frame, and which frame has the greater maximum limit total weight? Thanks.
Those bikes both use the same aluminum for construction so one is probably not too noticeably stiffer than the other, but considering the bikes as a whole the FX is stiffer because of the rigid front fork. Both bikes have a maximum weight limit of 300 pounds or 136 kilograms.
I did not get the dual sport as most of the time I ride with it lock out on my Raleigh i 11 trail.
Can you make a video on best first bike?
I noticed that there is a ready mounting bolt on the side of the fork of FX1... Can you please tell us where is that for? Thanks for a good and informative video.
Two mounts, one center fork, one behind the fork dropout. You could use them to mount fenders, and/or front rack. I mounted fenders and an Axiom lowrider to my V-Brake FX-1 (not sure about disc models, the disc might interfere with the lower mount non-drive side).
Thanks brother you are best teacher
Thank you too!
Can you do this again.., w/ the 2024 version DS3 Gen 5? PLEASE..,
Sure I can work on that one! Sorry about that, have been meaning to get more of these comparisons out there so need to get back into it!
I would prefer the fx
This market is over complicated imo… these manufacturers should slim down the millions “options” that are all actually really similar & rather give us a good range price-wise & good quality/value for the price(s)
Great video, thank you very much, I tried both bikes and I found dual sport better for riding in the roads of Toronto, because most of the roads are bumpy
Thank you too! Sounds like the DS was the right choice there
I just purchased a fx3 I wanted a ds 3 or 4 but nothing available till later this year they say, wondering if you know where or if I could purchase the fork assembly with the shocks ? Thanks Mike 😊
Nice and very informative video, thank you
Of course!
I been debating on which bike is the one for me and I have decided to get the FX3 and put on some 40 mm tires. Thanks for the information
Nice!!
Interesting. Trek specifies that the maximum tire clearance without fenders is 38mm. Tires often run smaller than advertised. What make and model of tire are you running? This might be interesting to anyone here wondering how big a tire they can fit in their FX bikes.
U made everything clear. Thanks 👍