The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 XT Gen 7 2026 gets you the same full-carbon OCLV Mountain Carbon frame and Fox Factory suspension as the higher-spec Fuel EX models, with Shimano's dependable mechanical XT drivetrain keeping the price sensible.
WHO THIS BIKE SUITS
You want a genuinely lightweight, carbon-frame trail bike without paying for electronic shifting.
You trust mechanical Shimano XT — proven, easy to service, and reliable in all conditions.
You want Fox Factory-level suspension performance on a bike that isn't the most expensive in the range.
You ride enough that frame weight and stiffness genuinely matter to you.
IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT
If you want electronic shifting, the XT Di2 version above gets you the same frame with Shimano's Di2 system.
If carbon isn't essential to you, the aluminium Fuel EX 9 XT gives you the same drivetrain and comparable suspension for considerably less.
WHERE IT SITS IN THE RANGE
The Fuel EX 9.8 XT is the value entry point into the carbon Fuel EX range — same frame and Fox Factory suspension as the models above it, with a mechanical Shimano XT drivetrain to keep the price down.
HOW IT RIDES
Suspension
Fox Factory 36 fork and matched Fox rear shock — the same suspension performance found on the pricier Di2 and AXS versions.
Drivetrain
Shimano XT M8100 is a proven 12-speed mechanical groupset — reliable, well-understood, and easy for any workshop to service.
Brakes
Shimano XT M8220 four-piston brakes deliver strong, consistent stopping power.
THE FINAL WORD
The Fuel EX 9.8 XT is where we'd point most riders who want a carbon Fuel EX without spending on electronic shifting. Come in and talk to us — we can help you decide whether the step up to Di2 or AXS is worth it for how you ride.
We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment, specifications, models, colours, materials and pricing. Due to supply chain issues, compatible parts may be substituted at any time without notice. Bike and frame weights are based on pre-production painted frames at time of publication. Weights may vary in final production.
Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, internal storage, ZS headset, adjustable leverage rate, guided internal routing, interchangeable alloy rocker link, interchangeable lower shock mount, downtube guard, shuttle guard, BSA 73, ISCG 05, ABP, UDH, Boost148, adaptable travel 145 mm-160 mm
Fork: Fox Factory 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP X2 damper, 44mm offset, Boost 110, 15mm Kabolt X axle, 150mm travel Fox Factory 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP X2 damper, 44mm offset, Boost 110, 15mm Kabolt X axle, 150m
Rear shock: Fox Factory Float X, 205mm x 60mm
Rear derailleur: Shimano XT M8100, long cage
Crank: Shimano XT M8120, 30T, 55 mm chain line, 170 mm length
Bottom bracket: Shimano BB-MT501 BSA
Cassette: Shimano XT M8200, 10-51, 12-speed
Chain: Shimano Ultegra/XT M8100
Brakeset: Shimano XT M8220 4-piston hydraulic disc // Shimano XT M8220 4-piston hydraulic disc Shimano XT M8220 4-piston hydraulic disc // Shimano XT M8220 4-piston hydraulic disc
Rotors: Shimano RT86, 6-bolt, 203 mm // Shimano RT86, 6-bolt, 180 mm
Tyres: Maxxis Minion DHF, tubeless-ready, 3C, EXO+ casing, MAXXGRIP, folding bead, 29x2.5'' // Maxxis Minion DHR II, tubeless-ready, 3C, EXO+ casing, MAXXTERRA, folding bead, 29x2.5''
Handlebar: Race Face ERA, carbon, 35 mm, 27.5 mm rise, 800 mm width
Stem: Bontrager Elite, 35 mm, 0-degree, 45 mm length
Grips: Trek Line Elite, lock-on
Saddle: Verse Short Pro, carbon rails, 145 mm width
Seatpost: Bontrager Line Dropper, 200 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 515 mm length
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.
