"I'm ridin' through the grass." LOL I enjoyed this video (and it's the first video I've watched in quite while in which the background music didn't make me want to scream).
I bought the FX2 a few weeks ago, it’s very light considering it’s aluminium, awesome hybrid, brakes are sharp, gearing is excellent. Only cost £650, probably the best bike I’ve ever bought. I’d love to be able to afford the FX4, but oh well, I’m happy. Top video Matty
Mid-late 40's guy here. When realizing my 1997 MTB frame was cracked and starting to shop for bikes in 2022, I realized my 1997 Hardtail Mountain Bike is today's Gravel Bike :)
Well if your 97 MTB has slack geometry, a long wheel base, hydraulic disc brakes, a suspension headset, carbon fibre forks and a 1 x 11 drivetrain then fair enough
Matty, you really need to call be before you go anywhere near a bike shop, you fall in love too easily! :) The short answer I'd give you is no, the bike isn't worth it. I could go on and on, but the bottom line is the expense on that bike is the carbon frame, but for the kind of riding you're looking to do with it, you really don't need a carbon frame. You don't need tubeless tires, those are to save weight for racers and to run really soft for mountain bikers who want that extra grip on obstacles. For a mostly-road bike I'd prefer tubes as you don't need to constantly fill them and you'll keep them pretty hard most of the time. Skinny tires are better for rolling, wide tires on that bike wouldn't make sense. No suspension will fatigue your upper body very quickly and be uncomfortable in a short time if you ride over bumpy terrain. It is a very pretty bike, Trek definitely knows how to make a good looking bike. If you want a light offroad cruiser that is really different from your other bikes, in the same price point consider the fat-tire Farley, I know you rode one once in the snow. It looks bad ass and it's really different and a comfortable ride. Otherwise, if you just want a casual cruiser bike, you can get what you need for a fraction of the cost, even an older used bike with rim brakes would be fine. A steel or aluminum frame is fine for that. Save your money! Of course, after all that, if you're in love, you're in love. You do you, buddy! :)
Great bike, thanks for posting review. Yes i would say this is effectively a gravel bike with straight bars. The straight bars will give you a bit more stability on rougher terrain. I'd certainly consider getting one of these! Trek have such a varied range to suit every type of riding.
I would say its a hybrid and hybrid bike is a mix between a road and MTB bike. Hybrid bikes have more upright geometry for comfort, usually has flat bars, and has a lower end MTB drivetrain. Gravel bikes usually come with drop bars, Shimano GRX drivetrain, wider clearance for tires and you can fit 650b (aka 27.5 in MTB terms) tire on there, and there's lots of spots on the bike to mount things on. You seem very stoked on the FX4 and i would say go for it! At the end of the day, you gotta find what you enjoy regardless of what others say about it.
I'm looking at getting back into riding bike again come spring, when the MN winter has melted away. I need the exercise, do some sight seeing. This is the bike I'm looking at getting.
So yes, I’d like this bike a lot ever since you tried it out. It’s the closest thing to road bike that has the comfort of a mountain bike but more speed, good choice!
I bought an FX Sport 6, love it! Thinking about setting it up for my new gravel adventures? I also have the new Domane SLR w/SRAM RED, setting that up for 85/15 road/gravel. Coming from a Roubaix SWorks Road bike.
Thanks Matty - great review. You are my exact use case for this type of bike. Maybe throw in a few group rides for charity with the family, and this bike would be perfect.
Nice review. Thanks. I’m thinking of selling my 2021 Dual Sport 2 and picking up an FX Sport 5. I ride almost exclusively on paved roads but like the option of hitting light gravel occasionally.
I'm 5' 9" and test rode a Medium frame, they had to put the seat at the max height and they recommended a large frame. I thought it felt nimble but I would consider the FX5 if paying that much, the FX6 though is quite a leap in price.
Nice quality video, and great weather where you are. I think if you buy that you'll probably get rid of the Marlin and go for something more trail focused. The Marlin is really an XC bike and i wouldnt call it a trail bike. That FX Sport looks like a lot of fun for paved and hard packed surfaces, plus you can get fenders, panniers and frame bags for it that make it versatile and good for long distance. Having it and the Marlin is a duplication, and the FX sport is lighter and more efficient. I'd buy that, sell the Marlin and be on the lookout for a nice Fuel/Slash/Remedy..
The bike looks, seems great!! I however, prefer to keep my $$ in my pocket and use my 90s era GT mtb with 1.75 width tires for dual purpose, with straight bars, fully rigid to cut down the weight. Tomato Tomahhhto. Just ride and enjoy!!
This is a hybrid more than a gravel bike. Treks website doesn't even have this listed in the gravel category. Those are the dormanes etc from what I'm seeing.
Getting back into cycling after years away from it to lose weight and rehab. My wife and I (in our 50's) went with Dual Sports (I got the DS3gen5; she got the DS2gen4). Only got one ride in with them as the upper midwest weather still thinks Winter should stick around. Anxious to get out more... Made me feel like a kid again my first time out.
Hey from what I see your most views come from the marlin 6. I think you should keep it and upgrade it. Would really like a serious of you upgrading it. It’s an affordable entry bike that many can afford.
I would say it's an hybrid with gravel tires, gives you a relaxed position to pedal, that's a hybrid to me. A "gravel" bike would be more like a road bike with a little mods on the frame with gravel tires, but with a leaned to the front position, like a road bike. And it's a low grade carbon, that's why it weights too much (I say much becase 10 Kgs is what it weights my hybrid with aluminum frame and carbon fork). Don't go to the cheaper model. And watching the models, I would pick the FX5 rather than the Fx4 because got 11 speed and shimano brakes. The white color it's a nightmare to keep it clean, not for me LOL With those tires, It will be easier to make wheelies on that thing, you just need to learn the new balance point.
looks like a solid cruiser/commuter style bike. I think it will serve you well for what you're looking to do. I personally think gravel bike is a made up market by the bike companies. I've seen everything ridden on gravel from mountain bikes to road bikes. so a hybrid/gravel/comfort are all the same family. just my opinion
Couldn’t agree more! Geometry wise a hybrid is extremely similar to a gravel bike. I get that drop bars out you in a more aerodynamic position but that’s really it. There is more tire clearance on a gravel bike but really, if you have to run 50c wide tires on a gravel bike your likely better off on a mtb.
@@MattyActive Its a consumer direct brand so I dont know if there is anywhere to test one out, my Redwood is a medium and you can test it out whenever! Hope the shoulder is better, keep up the great content!
@@MattyActive With 35% conversion to US dollars, almost exactly the same. Due to covid shortages and pent up demand for bikes, they don’t discount at all. Plus we get to pay 13% taxes to cover our “free” health care.
I'm going to be the voice of dissent and say that you should stick with the Marlin 6 for now or at least look at the Dual Sport 3. If you were going to be riding that FX Sport 4 on crushed gravel or paved multiuse paths or looking to hook it up to a Wahoo Kicker over the winter that bike would make sense, but I wouldn't take it on coarse gravel and definitely not on green MTB trails because of the carbon frame and lack of any suspension whatsoever. That 42t up front will make climbing very difficult as well. Seriously, we have wet springs and falls here back east and my wife's gravel bike and our FX get put up while the Marlins ride on. Back in 2020 your Marlin 6 basically was a beefed up hybrid. Going 1x just made them easier to pedal uphill. Right now I'd say the only thing that your current Marlin 6 has going against it is the 28t on the crank; it can take up to a 34t (and still climb like a goat) but you'd still need a new crank if the cog is integrated.
Just picked on of these up yesterday and went straight to a 50 kilo ride it might not be as cool as the fx6 or other more expensive bikes but it puts my verve 1 to shame
Wish they made an alloy version of this sport to have one a little cheaper. Maybe they will future? This looks like what I would want in a gravel. Stil think you should throw some cheap spec renegade on your merlin. Then you can have a battle video between that and this to make your decision.
I was doing this exact comparison last year - the 2023 was slower rolling because of the wider tires so I went with the 2021. I run 32mm Conti GP 5000 on Hunt 34 Aero Wide wheels for road and it’s fast af. I got a second wheel set for off-road, Hunt All-Road with 35mm Gravel King SS. Still haven’t tested it on gravel/off-road yet but I don’t see why it would be a problem. Also the 2021 has higher spec components, drivetrain and brakes. I got mine for $1450 but I still think that’s a good deal.
I am literally debating on the 2023 trek FX 3 disc at the moment. I'm looking for a hybrid. I Did glance at the 4 sport but I'll save that money for my accessories
How much riding have you done on the bike? Looking at the FX6 for commuting and riding with kids.... domane isn't kid friendly like a flat bar(excuse to get another bike😂)
Wondering if you felt like you were "running out of gears" going uphill or going downhill. Also, regarding the weight. This bike is a couple pounds heavier than the 2021 FX Sport 4. I wonder why. This carbon fiber bike is only two pounds lighter than my 2011 Trek FX 2. I keep looking at this FX Sport 4, but not sure I will get $1800 more joy than I still do riding my 2011 FX 2.
I bought a bicycle yesterday, cheaper than his but it's a diamondback metric 3. The bike shop guy called it a fitness bike, others call it a hybrid so call it what you will I guess. 😅
It is definitely a hybrid.....be careful about the tire clearance.....there is not much tire clearance there for wider tires.....which you may be wishing for on anything but the smoother surfaces....I rode a trek dual sport on green Singletrack once and it was miserable
I plan to purchase the FX Sport 4 model and your video helped solidify my decision. My only uncertainty is the color - Trek White or Lithium Grey? The stores near me do not have any white in stock for me to see - did you get a chance to see the Lithium Grey? Do you have a recommendation based on your experience?
While this definitely falls into the category of a hybrid bike, don'tlet anyone say this is not a gravel bike just because it does not have drop bars. I have no idea where these people are getting that idea from, but its obvious they are not famiar with the gravel bike market, or for that matter, bikepacking bikes. The new FX Sport line can definitely fill the role of both gravel, as well as bikepack bike. And with a set of aero bars and a slight gearing modification (bigger chainring or an eThirteen cassette with 9 and 10 tooth cogs for more top-end speed), you could even do some gravel racing with it, or even just reasonably fast road rides. It may not excel in those roles, but it suffices as a reasonable all-road bike. Its only real limitation would be when you start getting into more rugged terrain due to the tire size restriction (claimed 42c by Trek, but in reality its about 45c withthe extra mud clearance). But even then, very few gravel racers nowadays are riding tires greater than 45c. The trend is no longer towards oversized tires as most racers choose between 37 to 42c tires on all but the more rugged gravel courses. Like the Trek Checkpoint, the bike has frame mounts under the top tube for a strapless frame bag which is a nice touch as very few bikes have that. That may facilitate some tamer bikepacking adventures. The upright geometry of the bike, which is why most are likening it to a hybrid bime, shares a lot in common with a lot of bikepacking bikes on the market which have similar very high stacks over 600mm. This, along with the flat bars aids comfort on long adventure rides, which is why many serious bikepacking bikes have flat bars rather than drops. I would not ride the Tour Divide on this bike (mainly due to the tire size limitation), but theres tens of thousands of miles of other gravel rides abd bikepack adventures you could do with this bike. The wheelset on this bike are even superior to the junk wheels on the Trek Checkpoint gravel bike. One RUclips bikepacker apparently obliterated his flimsy 24 spoke Checkpoint wheelset. The FX Sport uses 32 spoke wheels which likely woukd be more appropriate for weighted touring and loaded bikepacking.
It’s not sold as a gravel bike in the UK. Tires aren’t fat enough to be classed as a gravel bike. Geometry is slightly different too as is the gearing. I’m looking at ordering an FX4 soon. I’m 5ft 6 and don’t know what size to get… 🤷🏻♂️
I rode a FX3 XL wich has different geometry than the FX sport series. Would you say the FX4 is true to size or maybe should go up a size. My L Roscoe 6 is the right fit as far as MTBs but I feel these hybrids are built differently lol
It's a hybrid, the people in the store will say what you want to hear. 1799 is too steep if you want a gravel bike. There are some good budget options from smaller brands
The regular fx for sure is. But this is the fx sport. If you look at the frame can tell the frame is little more beefy looking. Know is carbon vs alloy, thou. Also way more tire clearance on the fx sport model. Just a flat bar gravelish bike how I look at it.
Not bad for just a city/street hybrid cruiser - still not a gravel bike. But don't be sold just because its Carbon - most new Aluminum frames weigh close to the same, components are the big deciding factor on weight. This is just trek making a hot buck on clever marketing, and huge margins on carbon frames built over seas. If you just want to cruise on paved roads, i'm sure this bike is fine - Don't be afraid to give a drop bar bike a spin though! like the checkpoint if you're just massively in love with trek, but there's other great brands that are just as good value for money, or better - Cube, Canyon, Cannondale etc. If you want something you can get a bit larger tires on, maybe to mob around in some snow, get 650 rims, if you want something you can get some solid 32mm or 28mm tires on for summer riding on tarmac, then get 700.
Is the FX4 a fairly fast bike ? Don't want a road bike because I do some light off road biking. If I did get the FX 4 Sport in would be ridden on a paved bike trail.
If you wanna go proper gravel riding, then get one with a drop bars. I recommend the Richey Beacon XL, because you come from a MTB background. Or put on a Surly Corner bar 🤩 A proper gravel bike can be taken to the forest and ride green and blue single tracks.
I thought gravel bikes have drops like a road bike? Seems like you need to try out a real gravel bike (light, drops, 12 speed, carbon) to decide if that's for you (more endurance riding) or a hybrid (casual riding).
Save your Money.. You can do everything on your Marlin and then some. Get some gravel tires. Riding with your girlfriend , she wont be going too fast for your Marlin :) It still a really capable bike.
Not all of them. Marin have a flat bar gravel line up, Norco has a flat bar gravel. And they are gravel bikes, more robust and lighter than a hybrid fitness. The Trek FX sport is designed to be more comfortable on light hardback. It's popular as anything on our local rail trail. Which is why I think the marketing of gravel capable fitness is a great one for this bike.
Comment sections on bike reviews are nauseating. No matter what the bike, it’s the wrong bike. Wrong definition, wrong tires, wrong colors, wrong geometry, wrong price, wrong materials, wrong gearing, it’s a wonder how any bike rolls down the road. People, it’s a bike, not a spaceship. Get out of your micro analysis.
Realistically, the Trek is a pavement bike. While you could take it on gravel or trails, you probably won't want to after trying it for that purpose a few times. It also will not be as good as a Marlin for snow or ice. I have a Trek Marlin 8 and a bike similar to the FX. Both are good, but you need to think about exactly what you want to use your bikes for. The FX is for long or short rides on the pavement, nothing more. The Marlin is a bit too slow for long rides on the pavement.
Nooooo! Trek categorizes this as a fitness bike, which is closer to a hybrid. Sounds like your shop is trying to clear some inventory. If you want a trek gravel bike, look at a checkpoint. If you want a dedicated flat bar gravel bike look at the Marin DSX. It’s cheaper, competitively spec’d and is more purpose built. Plus… it’s brown.
Wait, so you’re saying a bike that has 42c tire clearance and comes with a MTB groupset and 42t 11/46 cassette can’t be ridden on gravel? You’ve got be kidding me. This may not be a CheckPoint but it will handle gravel just fine.
"I'm ridin' through the grass." LOL I enjoyed this video (and it's the first video I've watched in quite while in which the background music didn't make me want to scream).
The white frame with the reflective decals is probably the sharpest looking bike I've ever seen!
I bought the FX2 a few weeks ago, it’s very light considering it’s aluminium, awesome hybrid, brakes are sharp, gearing is excellent. Only cost £650, probably the best bike I’ve ever bought. I’d love to be able to afford the FX4, but oh well, I’m happy. Top video Matty
I’ve got mine coming tomorrow can’t wait, in white large.
Mid-late 40's guy here. When realizing my 1997 MTB frame was cracked and starting to shop for bikes in 2022, I realized my 1997 Hardtail Mountain Bike is today's Gravel Bike :)
Not by a long shot
Well if your 97 MTB has slack geometry, a long wheel base, hydraulic disc brakes, a suspension headset, carbon fibre forks and a 1 x 11 drivetrain then fair enough
Love the bike, it looks cool. Also love how the trails in this video are the streets of a sunny neighborhood. 😎
Matty, you really need to call be before you go anywhere near a bike shop, you fall in love too easily! :) The short answer I'd give you is no, the bike isn't worth it. I could go on and on, but the bottom line is the expense on that bike is the carbon frame, but for the kind of riding you're looking to do with it, you really don't need a carbon frame. You don't need tubeless tires, those are to save weight for racers and to run really soft for mountain bikers who want that extra grip on obstacles. For a mostly-road bike I'd prefer tubes as you don't need to constantly fill them and you'll keep them pretty hard most of the time. Skinny tires are better for rolling, wide tires on that bike wouldn't make sense. No suspension will fatigue your upper body very quickly and be uncomfortable in a short time if you ride over bumpy terrain. It is a very pretty bike, Trek definitely knows how to make a good looking bike. If you want a light offroad cruiser that is really different from your other bikes, in the same price point consider the fat-tire Farley, I know you rode one once in the snow. It looks bad ass and it's really different and a comfortable ride. Otherwise, if you just want a casual cruiser bike, you can get what you need for a fraction of the cost, even an older used bike with rim brakes would be fine. A steel or aluminum frame is fine for that. Save your money!
Of course, after all that, if you're in love, you're in love. You do you, buddy! :)
Thanks for being the only “real person” with a review of this bike on RUclips!
It’s super helpful!
Great bike, thanks for posting review. Yes i would say this is effectively a gravel bike with straight bars. The straight bars will give you a bit more stability on rougher terrain. I'd certainly consider getting one of these! Trek have such a varied range to suit every type of riding.
For me that bike is about perfect - it ticks all the boxes. Love that color, too!
I would say its a hybrid and hybrid bike is a mix between a road and MTB bike. Hybrid bikes have more upright geometry for comfort, usually has flat bars, and has a lower end MTB drivetrain.
Gravel bikes usually come with drop bars, Shimano GRX drivetrain, wider clearance for tires and you can fit 650b (aka 27.5 in MTB terms) tire on there, and there's lots of spots on the bike to mount things on.
You seem very stoked on the FX4 and i would say go for it! At the end of the day, you gotta find what you enjoy regardless of what others say about it.
The white and silver looks great and really pops with your black and gold LeBron 16s!
I'm looking at getting back into riding bike again come spring, when the MN winter has melted away. I need the exercise, do some sight seeing. This is the bike I'm looking at getting.
Get the checkpoint, that's a real gravel!
Great video. Lots of useful info. Nice that you showed the rider stance: hadn’t found that in other videos on this bike.
So yes, I’d like this bike a lot ever since you tried it out. It’s the closest thing to road bike that has the comfort of a mountain bike but more speed, good choice!
I bought an FX Sport 6, love it! Thinking about setting it up for my new gravel adventures? I also have the new Domane SLR w/SRAM RED, setting that up for 85/15 road/gravel. Coming from a Roubaix SWorks Road bike.
Did you get promax brakes?
She's beautiful, congratulations Matty! I got myself a FX 3, same color and components but alloy. :)
Thanks Matty - great review. You are my exact use case for this type of bike. Maybe throw in a few group rides for charity with the family, and this bike would be perfect.
Bike ordered. Exact same. Can’t wait to ride it, should be a nice upgrade over my FX3.
Nice review. Thanks. I’m thinking of selling my 2021 Dual Sport 2 and picking up an FX Sport 5. I ride almost exclusively on paved roads but like the option of hitting light gravel occasionally.
Best design so far.
I have the Checkpoint and I love it. Its such an awesome bike its light its fast I can ride of on the road with no problem.
I like your new bike and I subscribed to your other channel
Thank you! I really appreciate it
I'm 5' 9" and test rode a Medium frame, they had to put the seat at the max height and they recommended a large frame. I thought it felt nimble but I would consider the FX5 if paying that much, the FX6 though is quite a leap in price.
Nice quality video, and great weather where you are. I think if you buy that you'll probably get rid of the Marlin and go for something more trail focused. The Marlin is really an XC bike and i wouldnt call it a trail bike. That FX Sport looks like a lot of fun for paved and hard packed surfaces, plus you can get fenders, panniers and frame bags for it that make it versatile and good for long distance. Having it and the Marlin is a duplication, and the FX sport is lighter and more efficient. I'd buy that, sell the Marlin and be on the lookout for a nice Fuel/Slash/Remedy..
Have them all.
The bike looks, seems great!! I however, prefer to keep my $$ in my pocket and use my 90s era GT mtb with 1.75 width tires for dual purpose, with straight bars, fully rigid to cut down the weight. Tomato Tomahhhto. Just ride and enjoy!!
Just ordered mine and it was on sale for $1399 instead of $1700! Can’t wait
This is a hybrid more than a gravel bike. Treks website doesn't even have this listed in the gravel category. Those are the dormanes etc from what I'm seeing.
Atta boy! Just showcase models you don't own. Every one. Every new Generation and every new year. Learn.
I just bought the 2021 for $1273.00 because I wanted the GRX drivetrain opposed to the Deore drivetrain.
The Trek Dual Sport gen 5 is similar to the FX Sport, would be awesome if you could do a review of that model. Nice video!
Getting back into cycling after years away from it to lose weight and rehab. My wife and I (in our 50's) went with Dual Sports (I got the DS3gen5; she got the DS2gen4). Only got one ride in with them as the upper midwest weather still thinks Winter should stick around. Anxious to get out more... Made me feel like a kid again my first time out.
Nice! Im glad that you’re back out! Super excited for you
I just got a dual sport gen 5 and find it very sluggish. I’m thinking about trading it in for the fx sport
Just bought a Marlin 5 so I’m gonna have to wait it out but this bike is cool.
Right now I use my marlin as a gravel bike/green way. I'm interested in this bike for sure
Sweet ride.
Good info / honesty.
Good video.
Thank you 🙏
It's a hybrid because the geometry is designed with a flat bars in mind, But that doesn't mean you can't use it on the gravel trails.
Its technology is made for gravel.. obviously u a rookie on bike tech..im the expert.. im an engineer
@@MikeyzFoodieLair for sure. you win. Mr Expert Engineer.
Gravel bikes normally have drop bars but it does not really matter what you call it. You obviously love riding it that is the important part
Hey from what I see your most views come from the marlin 6. I think you should keep it and upgrade it. Would really like a serious of you upgrading it. It’s an affordable entry bike that many can afford.
Love the bike...and piano music.
I would say it's an hybrid with gravel tires, gives you a relaxed position to pedal, that's a hybrid to me. A "gravel" bike would be more like a road bike with a little mods on the frame with gravel tires, but with a leaned to the front position, like a road bike. And it's a low grade carbon, that's why it weights too much (I say much becase 10 Kgs is what it weights my hybrid with aluminum frame and carbon fork). Don't go to the cheaper model. And watching the models, I would pick the FX5 rather than the Fx4 because got 11 speed and shimano brakes. The white color it's a nightmare to keep it clean, not for me LOL With those tires, It will be easier to make wheelies on that thing, you just need to learn the new balance point.
looks like a solid cruiser/commuter style bike. I think it will serve you well for what you're looking to do. I personally think gravel bike is a made up market by the bike companies. I've seen everything ridden on gravel from mountain bikes to road bikes. so a hybrid/gravel/comfort are all the same family. just my opinion
Couldn’t agree more! Geometry wise a hybrid is extremely similar to a gravel bike. I get that drop bars out you in a more aerodynamic position but that’s really it. There is more tire clearance on a gravel bike but really, if you have to run 50c wide tires on a gravel bike your likely better off on a mtb.
Treks are great! Also though, have you looked into Poseidon bikes? The X and the Redwood are awesome gravel bikes for under $1000 too!
I haven’t but gotta check that out!
@@MattyActive Its a consumer direct brand so I dont know if there is anywhere to test one out, my Redwood is a medium and you can test it out whenever! Hope the shoulder is better, keep up the great content!
I live in Ontario, Canada and the Trek FX Sport 4 is going for $2329.99!
Wow that’s expensive!
@@MattyActive With 35% conversion to US dollars, almost exactly the same. Due to covid shortages and pent up demand for bikes, they don’t discount at all. Plus we get to pay 13% taxes to cover our “free” health care.
I'm going to be the voice of dissent and say that you should stick with the Marlin 6 for now or at least look at the Dual Sport 3. If you were going to be riding that FX Sport 4 on crushed gravel or paved multiuse paths or looking to hook it up to a Wahoo Kicker over the winter that bike would make sense, but I wouldn't take it on coarse gravel and definitely not on green MTB trails because of the carbon frame and lack of any suspension whatsoever. That 42t up front will make climbing very difficult as well.
Seriously, we have wet springs and falls here back east and my wife's gravel bike and our FX get put up while the Marlins ride on. Back in 2020 your Marlin 6 basically was a beefed up hybrid. Going 1x just made them easier to pedal uphill. Right now I'd say the only thing that your current Marlin 6 has going against it is the 28t on the crank; it can take up to a 34t (and still climb like a goat) but you'd still need a new crank if the cog is integrated.
Just picked on of these up yesterday and went straight to a 50 kilo ride it might not be as cool as the fx6 or other more expensive bikes but it puts my verve 1 to shame
Wish they made an alloy version of this sport to have one a little cheaper. Maybe they will future? This looks like what I would want in a gravel. Stil think you should throw some cheap spec renegade on your merlin. Then you can have a battle video between that and this to make your decision.
I was doing this exact comparison last year - the 2023 was slower rolling because of the wider tires so I went with the 2021. I run 32mm Conti GP 5000 on Hunt 34 Aero Wide wheels for road and it’s fast af. I got a second wheel set for off-road, Hunt All-Road with 35mm Gravel King SS. Still haven’t tested it on gravel/off-road yet but I don’t see why it would be a problem. Also the 2021 has higher spec components, drivetrain and brakes. I got mine for $1450 but I still think that’s a good deal.
good bike for mostly flat terrain. 40 x 11-46 does not offer much low gears for climbing
I am literally debating on the 2023 trek FX 3 disc at the moment. I'm looking for a hybrid. I Did glance at the 4 sport but I'll save that money for my accessories
How much riding have you done on the bike? Looking at the FX6 for commuting and riding with kids.... domane isn't kid friendly like a flat bar(excuse to get another bike😂)
IMO, hybrid bikes are a good alternative to gravel bikes. On the road, I use bar ends to get into a more aggressive position.
This VIDEO made me switch from the DUEL SPORT 2 to this particular BIKE and color much PROPS
Is this bike more upright than the dual sport ?
Wondering if you felt like you were "running out of gears" going uphill or going downhill.
Also, regarding the weight. This bike is a couple pounds heavier than the 2021 FX Sport 4. I wonder why. This carbon fiber bike is only two pounds lighter than my 2011 Trek FX 2. I keep looking at this FX Sport 4, but not sure I will get $1800 more joy than I still do riding my 2011 FX 2.
It's sleek, I'm just a bit over the gigantic TREK branding, wish it could be more subtle.
I bought a bicycle yesterday, cheaper than his but it's a diamondback metric 3. The bike shop guy called it a fitness bike, others call it a hybrid so call it what you will I guess. 😅
It is definitely a hybrid.....be careful about the tire clearance.....there is not much tire clearance there for wider tires.....which you may be wishing for on anything but the smoother surfaces....I rode a trek dual sport on green Singletrack once and it was miserable
Nice bike. I like that one. I say go big. Or go home. Lol
Hey, check out the Polygon Strattos S7 or S8 road bike. I bought a Strattos S5 and its fast.
Hi Matt what do you think about the Dual Sport 3 Gen 5 over the FX bike or the marlin 6?
Be careful, popping willies, or you can break the front forks. Don’t forget the bags made out of carbon fiber.
What do you think about the new 2023 trek dual sport 3 compared to fx sport 4
I plan to purchase the FX Sport 4 model and your video helped solidify my decision. My only uncertainty is the color - Trek White or Lithium Grey? The stores near me do not have any white in stock for me to see - did you get a chance to see the Lithium Grey? Do you have a recommendation based on your experience?
I never got to see the lithium grey but the white is definitely awesome!
What about the Dual Sport 4 or 3 Gen 4? Love your videos
It’s a flat bar gravel bike. I really want an FX Sport 6.
While this definitely falls into the category of a hybrid bike, don'tlet anyone say this is not a gravel bike just because it does not have drop bars. I have no idea where these people are getting that idea from, but its obvious they are not famiar with the gravel bike market, or for that matter, bikepacking bikes.
The new FX Sport line can definitely fill the role of both gravel, as well as bikepack bike. And with a set of aero bars and a slight gearing modification (bigger chainring or an eThirteen cassette with 9 and 10 tooth cogs for more top-end speed), you could even do some gravel racing with it, or even just reasonably fast road rides.
It may not excel in those roles, but it suffices as a reasonable all-road bike. Its only real limitation would be when you start getting into more rugged terrain due to the tire size restriction (claimed 42c by Trek, but in reality its about 45c withthe extra mud clearance). But even then, very few gravel racers nowadays are riding tires greater than 45c. The trend is no longer towards oversized tires as most racers choose between 37 to 42c tires on all but the more rugged gravel courses.
Like the Trek Checkpoint, the bike has frame mounts under the top tube for a strapless frame bag which is a nice touch as very few bikes have that. That may facilitate some tamer bikepacking adventures. The upright geometry of the bike, which is why most are likening it to a hybrid bime, shares a lot in common with a lot of bikepacking bikes on the market which have similar very high stacks over 600mm. This, along with the flat bars aids comfort on long adventure rides, which is why many serious bikepacking bikes have flat bars rather than drops.
I would not ride the Tour Divide on this bike (mainly due to the tire size limitation), but theres tens of thousands of miles of other gravel rides abd bikepack adventures you could do with this bike.
The wheelset on this bike are even superior to the junk wheels on the Trek Checkpoint gravel bike. One RUclips bikepacker apparently obliterated his flimsy 24 spoke Checkpoint wheelset. The FX Sport uses 32 spoke wheels which likely woukd be more appropriate for weighted touring and loaded bikepacking.
It’s not sold as a gravel bike in the UK. Tires aren’t fat enough to be classed as a gravel bike. Geometry is slightly different too as is the gearing. I’m looking at ordering an FX4 soon. I’m 5ft 6 and don’t know what size to get… 🤷🏻♂️
I rode a FX3 XL wich has different geometry than the FX sport series.
Would you say the FX4 is true to size or maybe should go up a size.
My L Roscoe 6 is the right fit as far as MTBs but I feel these hybrids are built differently lol
It's a hybrid, the people in the store will say what you want to hear. 1799 is too steep if you want a gravel bike. There are some good budget options from smaller brands
The regular fx for sure is. But this is the fx sport. If you look at the frame can tell the frame is little more beefy looking. Know is carbon vs alloy, thou. Also way more tire clearance on the fx sport model. Just a flat bar gravelish bike how I look at it.
People who buy a fx sport shouldn't be worried about tire clearance. Grip is not really a concern, rolling resistance is a bigger factor
Not bad for just a city/street hybrid cruiser - still not a gravel bike. But don't be sold just because its Carbon - most new Aluminum frames weigh close to the same, components are the big deciding factor on weight. This is just trek making a hot buck on clever marketing, and huge margins on carbon frames built over seas. If you just want to cruise on paved roads, i'm sure this bike is fine - Don't be afraid to give a drop bar bike a spin though! like the checkpoint if you're just massively in love with trek, but there's other great brands that are just as good value for money, or better - Cube, Canyon, Cannondale etc.
If you want something you can get a bit larger tires on, maybe to mob around in some snow, get 650 rims, if you want something you can get some solid 32mm or 28mm tires on for summer riding on tarmac, then get 700.
Is the FX4 a fairly fast bike ? Don't want a road bike because I do some light off road biking. If I did get the FX 4 Sport in would be ridden on a paved bike trail.
Try the Marin DSX 2
Geometry in the Marin is better than the trek for off road
Yep, agree.. or the DSX1. These are way underrated - I ride mine on road, single track, gravel roads.. it's really capable and light enough.
If you wanna go proper gravel riding, then get one with a drop bars. I recommend the Richey Beacon XL, because you come from a MTB background.
Or put on a Surly Corner bar 🤩
A proper gravel bike can be taken to the forest and ride green and blue single tracks.
I thought gravel bikes have drops like a road bike? Seems like you need to try out a real gravel bike (light, drops, 12 speed, carbon) to decide if that's for you (more endurance riding) or a hybrid (casual riding).
These cats actin like the bike won’t roll over gravel lmao gimme a break
Man try the checkpoint before buying. It's a legit gravel bike.
1x drivetrains for gravel. 2x for road.
What Helmet are you using in this video?
It’s a bontrager helmet. Not sure which model, it was the helmet they let me use to ride the bike
Can you use 45mm tires on this bike?
Save your Money.. You can do everything on your Marlin and then some. Get some gravel tires. Riding with your girlfriend , she wont be going too fast for your Marlin :) It still a really capable bike.
Nice bike but it's not a gravel bike . Try the Trek Checkpoint that's a true gravel bike.
Does it sit upright?
Yes for the most part
That's definitely a hybrid. Gravel bikes have drop bars
Not all of them. Marin have a flat bar gravel line up, Norco has a flat bar gravel. And they are gravel bikes, more robust and lighter than a hybrid fitness.
The Trek FX sport is designed to be more comfortable on light hardback. It's popular as anything on our local rail trail. Which is why I think the marketing of gravel capable fitness is a great one for this bike.
You know what would be cool? If the handlebars, stem, seat and grips were also white.
Nice bike ,but kinda pricey for what your getting , although it is carbon
Comment sections on bike reviews are nauseating. No matter what the bike, it’s the wrong bike. Wrong definition, wrong tires, wrong colors, wrong geometry, wrong price, wrong materials, wrong gearing, it’s a wonder how any bike rolls down the road.
People, it’s a bike, not a spaceship. Get out of your micro analysis.
👍
you can wheelie the F out of the fx... oh and its a hybrid
🤣
It's a hybrid gravel bike.
no it aint. dont get it!! go get you a dropbar grave; bike. like a checkpoint
Realistically, the Trek is a pavement bike. While you could take it on gravel or trails, you probably won't want to after trying it for that purpose a few times. It also will not be as good as a Marlin for snow or ice. I have a Trek Marlin 8 and a bike similar to the FX. Both are good, but you need to think about exactly what you want to use your bikes for. The FX is for long or short rides on the pavement, nothing more. The Marlin is a bit too slow for long rides on the pavement.
It's a hybrid, not a gravel bike.
Nooooo! Trek categorizes this as a fitness bike, which is closer to a hybrid. Sounds like your shop is trying to clear some inventory.
If you want a trek gravel bike, look at a checkpoint.
If you want a dedicated flat bar gravel bike look at the Marin DSX. It’s cheaper, competitively spec’d and is more purpose built. Plus… it’s brown.
No, not worth it. Stay with the Marlin
It's most definitely a HYBRID pay that money
It's a nice bike just not my style
I would NOT ride gravel on that bike!!! If you want gravel get gravel not hybrid
Wait, so you’re saying a bike that has 42c tire clearance and comes with a MTB groupset and 42t 11/46 cassette can’t be ridden on gravel? You’ve got be kidding me. This may not be a CheckPoint but it will handle gravel just fine.
I think it’s perfect for gravel. Those tires are perfect size for that. I have an older Trek hybrid that I’ve been riding on gravel for 5+ years.
This hybrid is made with technology to ride on gravel. You a rookie on bikes, obviously..
Dummy
Get that bike and ride it wherever you want…