Less Is More: Trek’s EXe Ups The Fun Factor for E-Bikers
Michael Finch
Many new launches chase more power and bigger batteries, but the Fuel EXe is a refined offering with mid-level assist from a system that’s so compact, light and quiet, it’s barely noticeable. It effortlessly blends in with the trail for a more natural assisted riding experience than ever before. Fuel EXe is the dream ride for e-mountain bikers who crave a quieter experience and traditional mountain bike hold-outs who were waiting for a better e-mountain bike.
Trek has partnered with German robotics manufacturer TQ to develop Fuel EXe hand-in-hand with their new HPR50 motor. Short for harmonic pin ring transmission, the HPR50 forgoes noisy belts and gears that can wear out, in favour of a refined system that is smaller, lighter, quieter and more durable than traditional e-bike motors. The entire system weighs in at only 3 900 grams, which means a lighter bike that rides more like traditional mountain bikes. Compared to traditional e-mountain bike motors, the HPR50 feels smooth, natural and is barely audible. Rather than hearing the whine of a motor, riders get to experience the wind through trees, tyres on dirt and the hoots and cheers of friends.Fuel EXe is equipped with a 360-watt hour battery that provides plenty of power for two to five hours of riding. The battery is neatly concealed in the downtube and can be easily removed for travel. For those looking to ride further and longer, a 160-watt hour Range Extender fits neatly inside the bottle cage and can be added for an easy 40% increase in range.
Mounted flush into the top tube, a two-inch OLED display allows riders to see every detail they need from above, while keeping a discrete appearance from the side. A single button turns the system on and off, and toggles through riding screens. The sleek display pairs with a small and discrete handlebar remote that features two buttons to allow riders to toggle through support modes and access walk assist.
For total user tunability, Trek has developed a new Trek Central app that seamlessly connects with Fuel EXe. Trek Central allows riders to customise the tune of their motor, track activity, map rides, suggest or monitor tyre and suspension pressure and get real-time range calculations.
Fuel EXe rolls on 29-inch wheels with 140 mm of rear travel paired with a 150 mm fork. The geometry is fine-tuned for stability on steep, high-speed descents and an efficient pedalling position for climbing. It’s also available in Project One for riders who want to customise their paint and parts.
