I got this recently as my first real bike to do it all. It's pretty interesting because I can cruise at 15 mph regularly without much effort and do proper single track like on a mountain bike. Because this is a dual sport type, bike, is not made to specialize in any situation like top speed and not being able to go on jumps. The good news is, it will do very well on most things including comfort. Ironically, it's more squishy than The Verve, More comfortable to cruise on for long periods of time than an FX, and more civil than the mountain bike on the road. It just works. It's also very light and agile. Good buy.
I bought one of these about 3-4 weeks ago. Very responsive and quick. I use it for recreational rides around the neighborhood. Already had a fast road bike and wanted something for 6-10 mile quick rides. Got the XL size since I'm 6'-0". The L size felt a little more compact and the XL gives me a little more room to stretch out. Great ride.
@@TreeShark I decided on neither for now. I rode both and the gearing was off on the dual sport. I then rode the dual sport plus 2 electric assist and loved it. However, the battery cannot be taken out without taking it into the shop. That is a problem keeping the battery in extreme temperatures in my garage. A week later I decided to fix up my 1993 Specialized "Mountain Bike". It rides almost like the FX2 now. It only cost me $100. If the gearing on the dual sport test model I rode would have been dialed in correctly, I probably would have chosen it over the fx. After riding the dual sport plus 2, I may be a believer on e-bikes. I wanted to ride that thing all day.
OMG! THANK YOU SO MUCH!! I have been looking for the weight of it, even calling to bike retailers and no one was able to tell me the weight of it. I was expecting more like 24 pounds, but i guess that those thick tires are the cause 😆. Tomorrow i'm buying two of it. I just hope that the single ring up front wont cut to much of speed on paved road situations speed up. Awesome review!
@@русланшальман Hi, the speed is great! At the fastest I feel forcing my legs more than when using my Anyroad 2. If I remember well the weight is 26 pounds.
Started a build quote yesterday! So far I'm up to $2600.00 I'm looking at this for exact reasons mentioned. I want more durability for the road. I eventually will be bikepacking. After a solid year on a garage sale purchase of a FX2 GEN1(2019) and looking at rebuilding up the fx2 for touring, i decided that a beefier setup was def in order! STOKED!
I bought this bike!!! Friggin' amazing! Yes, I am old and grew up with the none suspension bikes and this bike is above and beyond amazing for the price! A Five-star rating!!
I am old also and I am going to see this bike Friday, I had 2 Marlin 6 that were stolen years ago and I now ride an older Trek 820. How do you find the riding position on the DS3 Gen 5? I don't like being hunched over that much but like the look and features of this over the Verve.
Great bike. I bought my XL about a month ago and started upgrading stuff like the seat post and handle bar to CF. Looks cool. I can seriously ride this all day in the neighborhoods or A1A beachside. Its a solid, relaxed, and good looking bike.
@@petermainzer944 CF is no replacement for a suspension post. But CF does not transmit vibrations and flexes just a bit - I'm 225 lbs. Couple that with the 650b x 50mm tires at 25-30 psi, and I get a cushy ride. The CF handlebars do not transmit vibrations either, so all together, this bike is very compliant, but quick to respond to power because it's aluminum frame.
Interesting how things can come full circle. I ride a 2007 Cannondale Bad Boy that compares (physically) in many ways to this Dual Sport. My bike came equipped with 700c, but I am running 650b on it to run larger tires. The bike has a shock (the Headshocj). It is also running a Deore 3x9 system, which gives me plenty of gearing range. And, it has XT hydraulic brakes. The welds, as typical Cannondale of that era, are smooth and amazing. All this, and the bike weighs less than this Dual Sport. This Bad Boy is one awesome bike.
Love this is as my city bike. Upgraded from a similar bike with thinner tires. It’s so much more comfortable and can handle horrible city roads and sidewalks.
@@JitinMisraI can relate here. I had a fitness bike last year which I returned because it could not handle anything past perfect tarmac. It has a higher top speed than this dual sport, but I was unable to maintain that speed for long since it was so squirrelly and bumpy. This dual sport soaks up bumps a bit better and allows you to cruise. The wider tires also make it easier to stay upright. Smaller wheels help with agility.
Great presentation as always. Both the DS 3 and 2 are very interesting bikes. It would be great if these bikes come with Shimano Cues gearing next year. Because if I get the 2 I would change the cassette and the cranck and on the 3 I would add a front derailler and change the cassettes as well. All this for wider gear range and smaller steps between the gears. All of this is supposed to be easier with the Cues system. The use for these bikes that I have in mind is as a touring or adventure bike with bike packing bags. The tire width and clearance make these bikes very capable.
I appreciate your video, I recently pulled the trigger on this beauty last week in olive black and have been watching all content on this bike. Thank you for making me feel good about my purchase!
I bought DS 3 but decided 1x train is not for me, went back to DS2 with 2x feels much more comfortable for me. Not sure what's all the rage about 1x bikes.
I own a Trek Dual Sport +2 e bike with the same frame (except a battery in down tube). It's really nice to ride without the motor so this bike with a carbon fork and 5k less weight will definitely be on my try out list.
Honestly kind of wish I had this bike over my 2020 fx3. But I bought a marlin 7 last year and honestly after replacing the tires with conty cross kings it’s as easy to ride and more comfy. I like having a shock.
I have a 2022 dualsport 1 gen. 4 with front shocks and 40 tires. Wishing I had gotten the fx 2 instead. I do 80% roads 20% trails. I like the 35 skinny tires. I do like the shocks no more pain in my wrists from the road vibrations but added weight downside.
What are your thoughts on Trek's proprietary 5mm Thru-skewer axle? Multiple people have taken these 2022/2023 FX's and Dual Sports home only to be surprised that their bike trailer does not fit the axle installed on these bikes. Simple solution, return and get a Checkpoint instead.
I bought the DS 3 5th gen a few weeks ago. I'm getting into biking after a 20 year layoff. I'd like to venture off-road and maybe longer gravel rides or even a not so serious gravel race. Did I get the wrong bike or will this serve me well enough as I get back into biking and find my groove? Thank you!
Great review, as always, James. Currently trying to decide between this, the Trex FX Sport 5, and Specialized Sirrus 4.0 x. Primarily looking for an on-road fitness bike that's more upright because of neck issues. There didn't seem to be many options for smaller tires (i.e. 40 mm) for the DS Sport 3 Gen 5. Also heard there were many 'issues' for the FX Sport 5's drive train. Any suggestions / advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
I'm in Japan and I bought a DS3Gen5 at the end of January. It came with Tektro brakes and a Bontrager Nebula saddle so that was disappointing. It's a bit lighter and a lot more nimble than the front-suspension model. It's a really comfortable bike and it’s great for riding around town and on dirt trails. I like the simplicity of the 1x drivetrain, too.
The Tektro brakes are just as good as the Shimano ones (which are very basic and aren’t Deore anyways). The Bontrager saddle is decent and not really a downgrade. If you need an easier gear than 40x46 to get up hills then the problem is more likely your fitness, rather than the bike. FX Sport 4 is almost double the price of this Trek Dual 3 Gen 5, so it’s hardly a fair comparison.
@@paddyotoole2058Thank you very much for the great info. The Tektro brakes feel mushy to me so I was thinking about upgrading them to Deore. I already swapped out the stock pedals for Shimano PD-EH500s. Also thinking about upgrading to a better saddle.
@@paddyotoole2058 Also, you're right about the fitness level. I'm 66 now and not as strong and as fast as I was 20 years ago. I'll just keep working at it though.
@@lerico536 you might want to check that your disc brakes are bled and set up correctly? That may be why your brakes feel “mushy”. The Tektro brakes feel totally fine on mine and have great stopping power. The Bontrager saddle on mine also feels great to me and I will definitely be keeping it.
@@paddyotoole2058 I was going to take it in at 6 months but now the gear indicator on the shift lever is stuck in one position. I'll definitely have them bleed the brakes. Thanks!
Thanks for the review. I am trying to decide between trek ds 3 gen 5 and Marin dax1. But I am unable to find a direct comparison. Would you be so kind to give your opinion regarding main differences between those 2 bikes? Which would be more suited for what purpose.
I'm looking into this bike, seriously. It is almost perfectly suited to my needs. It's versatile and can carry stuff. It's reliable and simply made and can handle what I need it to. And it's the cushiest bike I've ever ridden, even more so than my mom's comfort hybrid. Odd huh?
Is it really better commuter than FX3? Shall I go for FX3 or Dual Sport 3? Although I will ride to school everyday only for 20 mins a day in total I may ride on gravel once every 3 months :) what shall I do?
@@anantjoshi722 to be honest mate I’ve not been out on it much until yesterday due to spending the last 4 month a bit poorly.. but feeling better now.. bit I’d recommend this bike..
Thanks for the nice review, how do you compare this to Marlin 7 Gen 2? I am planning to buy M7 Gen 2 soon but just saw your review and I am hesitant now 😂 I am tall and heavy (110Kg) and am going to use the bike for hybrid pleasure meaning some roads and hikes and on sands just for sightseeing (nothing serious). Thanks.
Well....I'm here looking at the new model. I've been using my 2017 DS2 for my daily commuter bike. Unfortunately my frame cracked 6/21/23. Will Trek do a warranty on it? 🤷♂️ It's in my LBS now. After 6 years and over 10,000 miles....new bike day?
I'm not sure if I should buy the gen 4 (DS 2) or the gen 5 DS3. I will use the bike weekly (mainly city uses) but also on track). I fear that not having suspension could worsen the feeling when using the GEN5..
How would you compare this to the dual sport 3 generation 4. I personally would miss the suspension fork on the Gen 4. You can put 700x45 or 29x2.10 tires on gen4. (I have the Gen 4) I’m curious what do you think?
The 4100 Shimano is a bummer on this. Should have been 5100 or 6100. 5100 can be upgraded later too easily to 6100 if required. This is a primitive gear
I am on the fence on whether to buy the DS 2 or Ds 3. I am going to be ridding mainly on a paved trail with slight off road gravel roads but want something fast enough to keep up with other bikes on the paved trails, what would you recommend ?
I purchased 2 of them one green one red. I ride laps around the hood. I ride for 2 hours a day min. I purchased 2 bicycles incase one is down for maintanace I can still ride. When I was young and could not afford to purchase a backup bicycle if the bicycle was broken I could not ride, I hated that. I love these bicycles, if they would have left the shock on there I never would have purchased the bicycle for sure. I love the group set it is perfect for this bicycle. I am thinking about purchasing 42 or 48 tires, something a little thinner. I think the 50 is just a little to big for the road and ever gravel. Single track the 50s would be good for, but they are slick so no LOL
@@Unicus1 I sold them and went with the Giant FastRoad AR 2. The Treks just did not fit me or my riding style like the Giant FastRoad AR 2, which I have 3 of them , weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
I was interested in this bike until I saw that it comes with a price tag of €1079 here in Ireland and to cap it all Trek are shipping it with tektro brakes because of supply issues with the shimano variants. This is crazy pricing…I can get then gen 4 for €700, albeit in not my first choice of colour, so that is more than likely where my money’s going.
The DS 2 has slightly better gearing for hills and it will go faster on the flats, the downside is it’s about 1kg heavier than the DS 3…Pick your poison I guess
@@aearly841 Not sure I quite follow. No matter what your gearing ratio is, you’ve still got to pedal the bike and put in the energy to move the bike. Simply having the option of a higher gear does not mean that one bike will “go faster” than another. You can be in a lower gear but have a higher cadence and still be going the same speed.
@@paddyotoole2058 But you’re going to max out at a lower speed on a crank with fewer teeth…Would you get the same speed replacing the 50T chainring of say an emonda with a 40T?
For 95% road use and a budget up to $1,500, and most likely my last bike since I’m 64, I want a great 5 to 10-mile flat bar bike to replace a 23-year old heavy full suspension MTB. What flat bar bike would you recommend? (My non-Trek local bike shop said a 2023 Sirrus X 4.0 on sale for $1,300, but I’m not sure of the SRAM Rear Derailleur quality). Naturally, the local Trek store said to buy the FX 3 Disc or DS 3. Any other brand or model for up to $1,500?
I'm trying to decide between the Trek Dual Sport Gen 5 and the Trex FX 3 Disc. I am planning on test riding both if they have them in stock. But, it seems like the Dual Sport might have a more upright seating position like you said. I will be riding on asphalt bike trails mostly with the occasional C&O Canal trail that has more rough terrain. If both bikes are equally easy to ride on an asphalt surface, I can see the Dual Sport having the advantage on rougher surface. Any opinions on choosing one or the other? Thanks for the videos!
I was also between two and ended up with Dual Sport 3 Gen 5 yesterday, Olive black, size M., but I am not an experienced cyclist. I bought Dual Sport because having the option to ride it also on gravel is a good option. Though I think FX 3 Disc is better on the asphalt/road. It is faster, for sure. If you mainly use it on asphalt, definitely go for FX3.
@@spiacy1394 I am 5.6. Trek has a digital system to do the measurement. And I guess their choice was correct. So M for someone who is 5.6 - 5.9 should be a good choice.
Hi James. Thanks for a great, in-depth review. I am still a bit unsure of the different between the 2x9 gear of the DS2 & the 1x10 of the ds3. How much harder to go up hill for the 1x10 vs the 2x9 in this case? Thanks!,
Low gearing is pretty close but the 2x has a slightly shorter low gear. 24.1 vs 23.1 gear inches. TBH, I'd probably want a bit lower than either for carrying a load.
Yes, if you shop around you can buy 650b x 40mm tyres and fit them to replace the 50mm ones. Lots of 650b x 40mm tyres are available to buy. Just do a Google search and you will see.
@Paddy O’Toole I don't think it is a silly question. The bikes appear to be similar, other than the carbon frame. I was just curious if the FX Sport has a noticeable better ride quality and is the price difference worth it.
I reckon you could put a slightly wider tyre on because there looks to be plenty of clearance at the back chain and seat stays and also at the front fork. I think a 650b x 2.2 inch / 55mm tyre is definitely doable.
@@mbasdinkciI went for the crimson red as well. Looks great in the flesh. I think also a red bike is going to have higher resale value as compared to a dark green should you want to sell it on in e.g. 10 years. More people generally tend to like that colour.
Im debating with myself whether to get this or Specialized Sirrus X3.0. Trek and Specialized now have almost identical range when it comes to hybrids. I already have a fast road bike so FX3 will be redundant to me. Im leaning more to this option but with 12.55 kg weight it’s almost as heavy as an MTB with coil fork. The Sirrus X 3.0 on the other hand is like 2 kg lighter.
I rode a FX Sports 5. Didn't care for it. The positioning seemed more upright. Full carbon (except wheels) weighs 1 lb more than my 2016 FX7.5 Aluminum frame. I didn't like the tires I really wasn't impressed for a $2k bike. Brake levers seemed cheap and the shifter wasn't as nice as my 8 year old bike. I was bummed. Closed my wallet and appreciate my older bike more than ever
For a bike that weighs so much, hard to believe no front suspension. They should get the weight down given wha they charge for these bikes. I bought an fx and the weight is ridiculous for $1000.
Wait until you weigh the carbon bikes and realize they weigh more than steel bikes from the 80s. I don’t know why they weigh so much, is it the disc brakes?
... I have a 2012-13 TREK 8.6 DS that I love ... let's see ... they reduced all the top features and made it a cheap "POS" .... Walmart sells better bikes ...
That’s only around 2 lbs less than last year’s Dual Sport that had a suspension fork Last year’s had 700x40c tires though… I’m still not sure which would be better for commuting around in a city with very poor roads
Very cool video as always - but I'm in Europe so it's Alumiiiiiiiiium !!! there is an "I" before the "um" - you guys are killing me every time by saying and writing Aluminum 🤮
Not really. The smaller wheels will be more agile and nimble over rougher terrain. And 650b tyres have way more volume than the 700c tyres, so more cushioning.
I got this recently as my first real bike to do it all. It's pretty interesting because I can cruise at 15 mph regularly without much effort and do proper single track like on a mountain bike. Because this is a dual sport type, bike, is not made to specialize in any situation like top speed and not being able to go on jumps. The good news is, it will do very well on most things including comfort. Ironically, it's more squishy than The Verve, More comfortable to cruise on for long periods of time than an FX, and more civil than the mountain bike on the road. It just works. It's also very light and agile. Good buy.
I bought one of these about 3-4 weeks ago. Very responsive and quick. I use it for recreational rides around the neighborhood. Already had a fast road bike and wanted something for 6-10 mile quick rides. Got the XL size since I'm 6'-0". The L size felt a little more compact and the XL gives me a little more room to stretch out. Great ride.
@@ML-gz3eq Do you think the tire size of the dual sport would make the bike any slower on an asphalt bike path than the tires on an FX 3 disc?
Which color did you get?
@@Timpala44I am also curious about this as well. Stuck between choosing an fx2 vs dual sport2
@@TreeShark I decided on neither for now. I rode both and the gearing was off on the dual sport. I then rode the dual sport plus 2 electric assist and loved it. However, the battery cannot be taken out without taking it into the shop. That is a problem keeping the battery in extreme temperatures in my garage. A week later I decided to fix up my 1993 Specialized "Mountain Bike". It rides almost like the FX2 now. It only cost me $100. If the gearing on the dual sport test model I rode would have been dialed in correctly, I probably would have chosen it over the fx. After riding the dual sport plus 2, I may be a believer on e-bikes. I wanted to ride that thing all day.
@@Timpala44 Fx 3 would be a bit faster with 700 cc wheels and higher pressure tires.
I bought this today in black/olive green. First new bike in decades and I'm looking forward to riding with my daughter.
Booked same black/olive green.
I bought the bike last week. I love it, it's light and very comfortable. Couldn't be happier.
Can we install a dropper post on this bike?
How about after a year?
The best review of DS35 out there. Thank you for helping in making my purchase decision. Subscribed
i own this exact bike same color, it rides like a dream so smooth and beautiful looking.
Does it ride nice in pavement ?
@@JitinMisra yes thats all i use it for
@@searaydrivingguywhat is your average speed and what color do you own ?
The wider 650b tires are incredible ❤
The 2024 equipped version of this bike is comimg with shimano clues instead of deore. Would that make any difference in the ridimg experience?
OMG! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!
I have been looking for the weight of it, even calling to bike retailers and no one was able to tell me the weight of it.
I was expecting more like 24 pounds, but i guess that those thick tires are the cause 😆.
Tomorrow i'm buying two of it.
I just hope that the single ring up front wont cut to much of speed on paved road situations speed up.
Awesome review!
Did you buy it? How's the speed?
@@русланшальман Hi, the speed is great!
At the fastest I feel forcing my legs more than when using my Anyroad 2.
If I remember well the weight is 26 pounds.
Started a build quote yesterday! So far I'm up to $2600.00 I'm looking at this for exact reasons mentioned. I want more durability for the road. I eventually will be bikepacking. After a solid year on a garage sale purchase of a FX2 GEN1(2019) and looking at rebuilding up the fx2 for touring, i decided that a beefier setup was def in order! STOKED!
I bought this bike!!! Friggin' amazing! Yes, I am old and grew up with the none suspension bikes and this bike is above and beyond amazing for the price! A Five-star rating!!
I am old also and I am going to see this bike Friday, I had 2 Marlin 6 that were stolen years ago and I now ride an older Trek 820. How do you find the riding position on the DS3 Gen 5? I don't like being hunched over that much but like the look and features of this over the Verve.
@@sbhjackson5931 What did you think of it?
@@sbhjackson5931you could get an extension for the handlebars.
I bought same bike today love it. Put 12 miles on it some in dirt road too!
Great bike. I bought my XL about a month ago and started upgrading stuff like the seat post and handle bar to CF. Looks cool. I can seriously ride this all day in the neighborhoods or A1A beachside. Its a solid, relaxed, and good looking bike.
what is your height
@@kertv2636 6'4", 225lbs, 36" inseam measured by bike fitter.
Do you like your CF seat post? Trying to decide if CF is better than a suspension post.
@@petermainzer944 CF is no replacement for a suspension post. But CF does not transmit vibrations and flexes just a bit - I'm 225 lbs. Couple that with the 650b x 50mm tires at 25-30 psi, and I get a cushy ride. The CF handlebars do not transmit vibrations either, so all together, this bike is very compliant, but quick to respond to power because it's aluminum frame.
Interesting how things can come full circle. I ride a 2007 Cannondale Bad Boy that compares (physically) in many ways to this Dual Sport. My bike came equipped with 700c, but I am running 650b on it to run larger tires. The bike has a shock (the Headshocj). It is also running a Deore 3x9 system, which gives me plenty of gearing range. And, it has XT hydraulic brakes. The welds, as typical Cannondale of that era, are smooth and amazing. All this, and the bike weighs less than this Dual Sport.
This Bad Boy is one awesome bike.
Love this is as my city bike. Upgraded from a similar bike with thinner tires. It’s so much more comfortable and can handle horrible city roads and sidewalks.
what was your previous bike ? How much slower is it with fatter tires ?
@@JitinMisraI can relate here. I had a fitness bike last year which I returned because it could not handle anything past perfect tarmac. It has a higher top speed than this dual sport, but I was unable to maintain that speed for long since it was so squirrelly and bumpy. This dual sport soaks up bumps a bit better and allows you to cruise. The wider tires also make it easier to stay upright. Smaller wheels help with agility.
Great presentation as always. Both the DS 3 and 2 are very interesting bikes. It would be great if these bikes come with Shimano Cues gearing next year. Because if I get the 2 I would change the cassette and the cranck and on the 3 I would add a front derailler and change the cassettes as well. All this for wider gear range and smaller steps between the gears. All of this is supposed to be easier with the Cues system.
The use for these bikes that I have in mind is as a touring or adventure bike with bike packing bags.
The tire width and clearance make these bikes very capable.
I appreciate your video, I recently pulled the trigger on this beauty last week in olive black and have been watching all content on this bike.
Thank you for making me feel good about my purchase!
Thanks for the review. Just what I am looking for in a bike . Next step is a test ride , before purchase
I fell on this thing my first day I loved it ever since
Beautiful looking bike! Great for the inner city commuter in places like Toronto with its brutal “paved” terrain.
Like the single chainring drivetrain 😊
I bought DS 3 but decided 1x train is not for me, went back to DS2 with 2x feels much more comfortable for me. Not sure what's all the rage about 1x bikes.
Completely agree, but there’s an option for almost everyone!
after watching this excellent review last week (thanks!), i decided to buy one of these bikes...can't wait until it arrives!
James, would this DS3 gen 5 be a lot faster on pavement vs. a Marlin 6 gen 2.?
Wow. That's pretty hefty in weight considering it's alu frame, carbon fork and 1X.
The frame is pretty robust and the tires are fat
I own a Trek Dual Sport +2 e bike with the same frame (except a battery in down tube). It's really nice to ride without the motor so this bike with a carbon fork and 5k less weight will definitely be on my try out list.
Honestly kind of wish I had this bike over my 2020 fx3. But I bought a marlin 7 last year and honestly after replacing the tires with conty cross kings it’s as easy to ride and more comfy. I like having a shock.
I have a 2022 dualsport 1 gen. 4 with front shocks and 40 tires. Wishing I had gotten the fx 2 instead. I do 80% roads 20% trails. I like the 35 skinny tires. I do like the shocks no more pain in my wrists from the road vibrations but added weight downside.
What are your thoughts on Trek's proprietary 5mm Thru-skewer axle? Multiple people have taken these 2022/2023 FX's and Dual Sports home only to be surprised that their bike trailer does not fit the axle installed on these bikes. Simple solution, return and get a Checkpoint instead.
I bought the DS 3 5th gen a few weeks ago. I'm getting into biking after a 20 year layoff. I'd like to venture off-road and maybe longer gravel rides or even a not so serious gravel race. Did I get the wrong bike or will this serve me well enough as I get back into biking and find my groove?
Thank you!
This will serve you well!!
Should be good
I just bought this today and will pick up tomorrow…. Super pumped!
Can we install a dropper post on this bike?
Great review, as always, James. Currently trying to decide between this, the Trex FX Sport 5, and Specialized Sirrus 4.0 x. Primarily looking for an on-road fitness bike that's more upright because of neck issues. There didn't seem to be many options for smaller tires (i.e. 40 mm) for the DS Sport 3 Gen 5. Also heard there were many 'issues' for the FX Sport 5's drive train. Any suggestions / advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
I'm in Japan and I bought a DS3Gen5 at the end of January. It came with Tektro brakes and a Bontrager Nebula saddle so that was disappointing. It's a bit lighter and a lot more nimble than the front-suspension model. It's a really comfortable bike and it’s great for riding around town and on dirt trails. I like the simplicity of the 1x drivetrain, too.
The Tektro brakes are just as good as the Shimano ones (which are very basic and aren’t Deore anyways). The Bontrager saddle is decent and not really a downgrade. If you need an easier gear than 40x46 to get up hills then the problem is more likely your fitness, rather than the bike. FX Sport 4 is almost double the price of this Trek Dual 3 Gen 5, so it’s hardly a fair comparison.
@@paddyotoole2058Thank you very much for the great info. The Tektro brakes feel mushy to me so I was thinking about upgrading them to Deore. I already swapped out the stock pedals for Shimano PD-EH500s. Also thinking about upgrading to a better saddle.
@@paddyotoole2058 Also, you're right about the fitness level. I'm 66 now and not as strong and as fast as I was 20 years ago. I'll just keep working at it though.
@@lerico536 you might want to check that your disc brakes are bled and set up correctly? That may be why your brakes feel “mushy”. The Tektro brakes feel totally fine on mine and have great stopping power. The Bontrager saddle on mine also feels great to me and I will definitely be keeping it.
@@paddyotoole2058 I was going to take it in at 6 months but now the gear indicator on the shift lever is stuck in one position. I'll definitely have them bleed the brakes. Thanks!
I have a Kona dew plus. It's got a 36t crank w/ 11-42 & 650b x 47 wtb horizons. It's a fast, fun bike.
This DS version will be a hit.
Thanks for the review. I am trying to decide between trek ds 3 gen 5 and Marin dax1. But I am unable to find a direct comparison. Would you be so kind to give your opinion regarding main differences between those 2 bikes? Which would be more suited for what purpose.
Gorgeous bike; love it. Living in hilly Seattle, my legs say it would be nice to have this in a 2x chainring setup…
I'm looking into this bike, seriously. It is almost perfectly suited to my needs. It's versatile and can carry stuff. It's reliable and simply made and can handle what I need it to. And it's the cushiest bike I've ever ridden, even more so than my mom's comfort hybrid. Odd huh?
TREK Dual Sport 3 Gen 5 2024 comes with Shimano CUES U6000 GS rear derailleur and Shimano CUES LG300, LINKGLIDE, 11-48, 10-speed cassete
Is it really better commuter than FX3? Shall I go for FX3 or Dual Sport 3? Although I will ride to school everyday only for 20 mins a day in total I may ride on gravel once every 3 months :) what shall I do?
Another great video, James 👍🏼
Just got one today.. love it already
How's it coming along? Planning to get one in a dark aquatic color. Is it worth it?
@@anantjoshi722 to be honest mate I’ve not been out on it much until yesterday due to spending the last 4 month a bit poorly.. but feeling better now.. bit I’d recommend this bike..
Thanks for the nice review, how do you compare this to Marlin 7 Gen 2?
I am planning to buy M7 Gen 2 soon but just saw your review and I am hesitant now 😂
I am tall and heavy (110Kg) and am going to use the bike for hybrid pleasure meaning some roads and hikes and on sands just for sightseeing (nothing serious).
Thanks.
❤❤❤ thankyou so much brother
I find it looks similar to my specialized sirrus x 2.0 in red! . Nice rig
I already decided im buying this in black olive!
Well....I'm here looking at the new model. I've been using my 2017 DS2 for my daily commuter bike. Unfortunately my frame cracked 6/21/23. Will Trek do a warranty on it? 🤷♂️
It's in my LBS now. After 6 years and over 10,000 miles....new bike day?
I'm not sure if I should buy the gen 4 (DS 2) or the gen 5 DS3. I will use the bike weekly (mainly city uses) but also on track). I fear that not having suspension could worsen the feeling when using the GEN5..
Looks like a good gravel bike. Hmmm 🤔. Thanks for sharing this with us.
Hi, is this the stock saddle that you got?
I got Bontwager nebula and it doesn't feel comfortable to me.
How would you compare this to the dual sport 3 generation 4. I personally would miss the suspension fork on the Gen 4. You can put 700x45 or 29x2.10 tires on gen4. (I have the Gen 4) I’m curious what do you think?
How does this bike compare to a Poseidon Redwood or Ambition X flatbar? Where did you get that bike stand?
Can you tell me the size of the threaded bottom bracket? I have an extra Sram NX groupset I want to swap on this bike. Thanks
Can it able to change to much slimmer wheels set ? It will make increase the speed?
this could be a good winter commuter if you could get fenders on it
Can anyone confirm the different between this gen and the last one? Particularly the comfort as I will go off road / trails as well as road commuting.
great!! this size frame L is recommended for my height (177 cm / 5,80709 inch)?
This one or the specialized Sirrus X 3.0?
no holes for hydraulic seat post on frame ?
The 4100 Shimano is a bummer on this. Should have been 5100 or 6100. 5100 can be upgraded later too easily to 6100 if required. This is a primitive gear
I am on the fence on whether to buy the DS 2 or Ds 3. I am going to be ridding mainly on a paved trail with slight off road gravel roads but want something fast enough to keep up with other bikes on the paved trails, what would you recommend ?
I had a same confusion and end up in ds2 if serve same purpose and better in uphil quick shift
I purchased 2 of them one green one red. I ride laps around the hood. I ride for 2 hours a day min. I purchased 2 bicycles incase one is down for maintanace I can still ride. When I was young and could not afford to purchase a backup bicycle if the bicycle was broken I could not ride, I hated that. I love these bicycles, if they would have left the shock on there I never would have purchased the bicycle for sure. I love the group set it is perfect for this bicycle. I am thinking about purchasing 42 or 48 tires, something a little thinner. I think the 50 is just a little to big for the road and ever gravel. Single track the 50s would be good for, but they are slick so no LOL
Have you changed the tires?
@@Unicus1 I sold them and went with the Giant FastRoad AR 2. The Treks just did not fit me or my riding style like the Giant FastRoad AR 2, which I have 3 of them , weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
@@Chef-Chad yeah ok looks good too. with carbon seatpost
Is this bike good for long distance travelling?
I bought one too. I love this bike. It's a shame that tire don't be TRL. This frame is Tapered?
Can we install a dropper post on this bike?
this frame haven't dropper post route@@robo1989
This frame do not have internal Dropper post route@@robo1989
How does the drivetrain handle steep climbs?
I was interested in this bike until I saw that it comes with a price tag of €1079 here in Ireland and to cap it all Trek are shipping it with tektro brakes because of supply issues with the shimano variants. This is crazy pricing…I can get then gen 4 for €700, albeit in not my first choice of colour, so that is more than likely where my money’s going.
Fair point , i find the bike to work scheme takes the sting out of it . I ordered my one today .
Would the Dual Sport 2 or 3 Gen 5 also make a good touring bike for a long-time mountain biker, who wants to do some touring?
The DS 2 has slightly better gearing for hills and it will go faster on the flats, the downside is it’s about 1kg heavier than the DS 3…Pick your poison I guess
@@aearly841 how do you figure out the D22 will be faster going over flat ground than the DS3?
@@paddyotoole2058 46T on the DS2 v 40T on the DS3 would give it an edge on the flat
@@aearly841 Not sure I quite follow. No matter what your gearing ratio is, you’ve still got to pedal the bike and put in the energy to move the bike. Simply having the option of a higher gear does not mean that one bike will “go faster” than another. You can be in a lower gear but have a higher cadence and still be going the same speed.
@@paddyotoole2058 But you’re going to max out at a lower speed on a crank with fewer teeth…Would you get the same speed replacing the 50T chainring of say an emonda with a 40T?
For 95% road use and a budget up to $1,500, and most likely my last bike since I’m 64, I want a great 5 to 10-mile flat bar bike to replace a 23-year old heavy full suspension MTB. What flat bar bike would you recommend? (My non-Trek local bike shop said a 2023 Sirrus X 4.0 on sale for $1,300, but I’m not sure of the SRAM Rear Derailleur quality). Naturally, the local Trek store said to buy the FX 3 Disc or DS 3.
Any other brand or model for up to $1,500?
Giant Roam
@@demri123 thanks, but one year ago I bought a Trek Sport 6.
I'm trying to decide between the Trek Dual Sport Gen 5 and the Trex FX 3 Disc. I am planning on test riding both if they have them in stock. But, it seems like the Dual Sport might have a more upright seating position like you said. I will be riding on asphalt bike trails mostly with the occasional C&O Canal trail that has more rough terrain. If both bikes are equally easy to ride on an asphalt surface, I can see the Dual Sport having the advantage on rougher surface. Any opinions on choosing one or the other? Thanks for the videos!
I was also between two and ended up with Dual Sport 3 Gen 5 yesterday, Olive black, size M., but I am not an experienced cyclist. I bought Dual Sport because having the option to ride it also on gravel is a good option. Though I think FX 3 Disc is better on the asphalt/road. It is faster, for sure. If you mainly use it on asphalt, definitely go for FX3.
@@muratbasdinkci5031 How tall are you?
@@spiacy1394 I am 5.6. Trek has a digital system to do the measurement. And I guess their choice was correct. So M for someone who is 5.6 - 5.9 should be a good choice.
@@spiacy1394 5.6
The front looks so bare with no suspension, cables, lights or mudguards 😅
Is it through axle ?
Hi James. Thanks for a great, in-depth review. I am still a bit unsure of the different between the 2x9 gear of the DS2 & the 1x10 of the ds3. How much harder to go up hill for the 1x10 vs the 2x9 in this case? Thanks!,
Low gearing is pretty close but the 2x has a slightly shorter low gear. 24.1 vs 23.1 gear inches. TBH, I'd probably want a bit lower than either for carrying a load.
Good looking bike
so this is a freehub?
Do they make 650b 40mm tires ? Like on the fx sport 6 but that has 700c x 40mm
Yes, if you shop around you can buy 650b x 40mm tyres and fit them to replace the 50mm ones. Lots of 650b x 40mm tyres are available to buy. Just do a Google search and you will see.
What is better, the DS3 Gen 5 or the FX Sport 4?
The FX sport 4 is almost twice the price of the DS 3 Gen 5. Comparing the two is a bit silly.
@Paddy O’Toole I don't think it is a silly question. The bikes appear to be similar, other than the carbon frame. I was just curious if the FX Sport has a noticeable better ride quality and is the price difference worth it.
Can I put a tire thats wider than the 2.0 inch that comes stock? Thank you.
I reckon you could put a slightly wider tyre on because there looks to be plenty of clearance at the back chain and seat stays and also at the front fork. I think a 650b x 2.2 inch / 55mm tyre is definitely doable.
@@paddyotoole2058 Thank you. Im picking up this same bike today. Crimson Red/L.
Which color is better? Crimson red or olive/black?
Crimson IMO but it depends on your style
@@Jamesthebikeguy I just returned the olive/black and got the crimson yesterday. Thanks for the suggestion. Indeed it is a beautiful color.
@@mbasdinkciI went for the crimson red as well. Looks great in the flesh. I think also a red bike is going to have higher resale value as compared to a dark green should you want to sell it on in e.g. 10 years. More people generally tend to like that colour.
Im debating with myself whether to get this or Specialized Sirrus X3.0. Trek and Specialized now have almost identical range when it comes to hybrids. I already have a fast road bike so FX3 will be redundant to me. Im leaning more to this option but with 12.55 kg weight it’s almost as heavy as an MTB with coil fork. The Sirrus X 3.0 on the other hand is like 2 kg lighter.
Is the colour red or pennyflake? Looks like both throughout the video.
Only red shown in the video
is the front wheel quick release?
No, only the rear wheel is quick release. You will need to use an Allen key to take off and replace the front wheel.
Thank you
Thank you …👍👍🇧🇷🇺🇸
what does it do?
Watching TV
Front fork is redundant
I rode a FX Sports 5. Didn't care for it. The positioning seemed more upright. Full carbon (except wheels) weighs 1 lb more than my 2016 FX7.5 Aluminum frame. I didn't like the tires I really wasn't impressed for a $2k bike. Brake levers seemed cheap and the shifter wasn't as nice as my 8 year old bike. I was bummed. Closed my wallet and appreciate my older bike more than ever
For a bike that weighs so much, hard to believe no front suspension. They should get the weight down given wha they charge for these bikes. I bought an fx and the weight is ridiculous for $1000.
Wait until you weigh the carbon bikes and realize they weigh more than steel bikes from the 80s. I don’t know why they weigh so much, is it the disc brakes?
Well, you can usually get it cheaper in some places, I actually got mine for a bit over 820
@@minnesotasteve almost entirely the frame since components don’t have large weight differences. Other than wheels. All about profit. No excuse.
1:55
Probably a good idea to buy an adjustable suspension fork for this bike. Bad idea on the part of Trek to do away with it from their Gen 4 series.
A 29er Hardtail is the real do it all bike...e.g. A scott scale 965 or 960
Not this...
... I have a 2012-13 TREK 8.6 DS that I love ... let's see ... they reduced all the top features and made it a cheap "POS" .... Walmart sells better bikes ...
That’s only around 2 lbs less than last year’s Dual Sport that had a suspension fork
Last year’s had 700x40c tires though…
I’m still not sure which would be better for commuting around in a city with very poor roads
I’d say 650x50mm is more plush than 700x40 by a long shot
Very cool video as always - but I'm in Europe so it's Alumiiiiiiiiium !!! there is an "I" before the "um" - you guys are killing me every time by saying and writing Aluminum 🤮
12.5kg - seems heavy for the price. If it was 11kg it would get my attention.
Good decision by trek ditching fork
This is just an FX now with chubbier tires. Big mistake.
Gen4 is better
Too small wheels
Not really. The smaller wheels will be more agile and nimble over rougher terrain. And 650b tyres have way more volume than the 700c tyres, so more cushioning.
@@paddyotoole2058is it possible to install 40mm tires on these ?
@@JitinMisraof course. Can always go narrower as clearance not an issue. Just need to swap the tyres out.
Which is better to choose for a comfortable ride, this bike or marin dsx 1?