The Trek Fuel EX 9 XT Gen 7 2026 pairs Trek's Alpha NEXT Platinum aluminium frame with Shimano's dependable mechanical XT drivetrain and Fox Factory suspension — a genuinely capable trail bike at a more accessible price.
WHO THIS BIKE SUITS
You want Fox Factory-level suspension and Shimano XT reliability without paying for carbon or electronic shifting.
You're after a durable, easy-to-service aluminium frame that can take a few knocks.
You want a trail bike that punches above its position in the range.
IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT
If you want a lighter, stiffer frame, the carbon Fuel EX 9.8 XT gets you the same drivetrain and comparable suspension.
If your budget's tighter, the Fuel EX 8 or Fuel EX 5 cover the same trail-bike character at a lower spec level.
WHERE IT SITS IN THE RANGE
The Fuel EX 9 XT sits above the Fuel EX 8 in the aluminium line-up, stepping up to Fox Factory suspension while keeping Shimano XT's proven mechanical drivetrain.
HOW IT RIDES
Suspension
Fox Factory 36 fork and matched Fox rear shock — genuinely premium suspension performance for an aluminium-frame trail bike.
Drivetrain
Shimano XT M8100 is a proven, easy-to-service 12-speed mechanical groupset.
Brakes
Shimano XT M8220 four-piston brakes give strong, consistent stopping power.
THE FINAL WORD
The Fuel EX 9 XT is a strong middle-ground choice — Fox Factory suspension and Shimano XT reliability without the carbon-frame premium. Come in and we'll help you compare it against the Fuel EX 8 below it and the carbon 9.8 above.
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: Alpha NEXT Platinum aluminium, 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 Alpha NEXT P
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 XT M8100, 12-speed
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 Turbine, alloy, 35 mm, 40 mm rise, 780 mm width
Stem: Bontrager Elite, 35 mm, 0-degree, 45 mm length
Grips: Trek Line Elite, lock-on
Saddle: Verse Short Comp, steel 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.
