The Trek Fuel EX 9.7 2020 is the entry point into the carbon Fuel EX range — and it's a genuinely capable trail bike. OCLV Mountain Carbon frame, Fox Rhythm 34 fork with 140mm of travel, Fox Float Performance RE:aktiv rear shock with 130mm, SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed, and Shimano MT420 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes. This is a bike that was praised across the board when it launched, and the carbon frame means it's aged well.
WHO THIS BIKE SUITS
You want a carbon full-suspension trail bike at an approved used price that makes the carbon frame accessible.
You ride varied terrain — climbs, descents, flowing singletrack — and want a bike that handles all of it without making compromises.
You want Trek's RE:aktiv suspension tuning, which gives you pedalling efficiency and sensitivity over rough ground in the same package.
You want Trek's internal frame storage as standard — a genuinely useful feature for carrying a tube and tools on longer rides.
IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT
If you want a current model with full dealer warranty, we stock the current Trek Fuel EX range — ask us what's available.
If you want more suspension travel for aggressive enduro riding, the Slash or Remedy platforms may suit you better.
WHERE IT SITS
The Fuel EX 9.7 was the first carbon model in the 2020 Fuel EX range, sitting above the aluminium 7 and 8 models. The OCLV Carbon frame is the same across all 9.x models — you're getting the same chassis as the 9.9 with a more workmanlike build spec.
HOW IT RIDES
Suspension
The Fox Float Performance RE:aktiv rear shock is the headline. RE:aktiv is Trek's proprietary suspension tune — it resists bobbing under pedalling effort but opens up immediately over impacts, giving you a suspension feel that's more capable than the price suggests. The Fox Rhythm 34 fork is the entry-level Fox air fork, honest and reliable rather than highly tuneable.
Drivetrain
SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed gives you a wide range in a robust, trail-proof package. It's not the lightest drivetrain on the market but it's dependable and easy to service.
Carbon frame benefits
OCLV Mountain Carbon is Trek's own carbon layup — lighter and stiffer than aluminium, with better vibration damping on long days in the saddle. The Knock Block headset protection and internal down tube storage are details that show the thought that went into this platform.
THE FINAL WORD
The 2020 Fuel EX 9.7 is still a genuinely good trail bike. The carbon frame hasn't dated, the geometry was ahead of its time when it launched, and the RE:aktiv suspension tune makes it ride better than the spec sheet suggests. Come in and talk to us if you want to know more — or get in touch and we'll help you decide if this is the right bike for your riding.
We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice. Bike and frame weights are based on manufacturer specifications at time of publication.
Fork: Fox Rhythm 34, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Kabolt, 140mm travel
Rear shock: Fox Float Performance EVOL, RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft, 3-position damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 130mm travel
Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, Active Braking Pivot, internal cable routing, Knock Block, internal frame storage, Mino Link adjustable geometry
Size: Medium/Large
Wheel size: 29"
Shifter: SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed
Rear derailleur: SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed
Cassette: SRAM PG-1230 Eagle, 11-50t, 12-speed
Chain: SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed
Crankset: SRAM NX Eagle DUB, 32t
Brake set: Shimano MT420, 4-piston hydraulic disc
Rotors: Shimano RT66 6-bolt, 203mm front / 180mm rear
Tyres: Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, 29×2.20"
Rims: Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 30mm internal width
Front hub: Bontrager, 6-bolt, Boost110
Rear hub: Bontrager, 6-bolt, Boost148, 12mm thru axle
Handlebar: Bontrager Line, 35mm, 780mm width
Stem: Bontrager Line, 35mm clamp, 0-degree, 50mm length
Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Elite, lock-on
Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, steel rails
Seatpost: Bontrager Drop Line, 31.6mm, internal routing, 150mm travel
Pedals: Not included
Personalised Bike Consultation
Not sure which model is perfect for you? Our expert team at All Ride Now in Midhurst, West Sussex is here to help you choose with confidence.
- Will you be riding mainly on or off-road?
- Do you prefer an upright or sportier riding position?
- Are you looking for longer range, lighter weight, or a more comfortable feel?
Through a friendly consultation – in-store, by phone, live chat or email – we’ll help you narrow down your options and find the bike that best fits your needs.
