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Equipped with the wireless Shimano XT Di2 M8250, an OCLV Mountain carbon frame and Fox Factory 36 and Float X suspension, the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 XT Di2 Gen 7 is aimed at the rider who is constantly accelerating. Trek has not published its weight for this version; the 9.8 XT with the identical frame weighs 15.28 kg in size M. The Gloss Dark Carmine/Matte Trek Black colour contrasts a glossy dark carmine red with matt black.
| Frame | OCLV Mountain carbon, integrated storage, adjustable progression, threaded BSA 73, ISCG 05, UDH hanger, Boost |
| Suspension | Fox Factory 36 GRIP X2 150 mm / Fox Factory Float X 145 mm |
| Drivetrain | Wireless Shimano XT Di2 1x12, long-cage M8250 derailleur, XT M8200 30T chainset, XT M8200 10-51 cassette |
| Brakes | Shimano XT M8220 4-piston hydraulic, RT86 203 mm (front) and 180 mm (rear) rotors |
| Wheels / tyres | Bontrager Line Comp 30 aluminium / Maxxis Minion DHF (front) and DHR II (rear) 2.5, EXO+, Tubeless Ready |
| Cockpit | Race Face Turbine alloy 35 mm handlebar, 40 mm rise, Bontrager Elite 45 mm stem |
| Saddle / seatpost | Verse Short Comp 145 mm / Bontrager Line Dropper, 150 to 200 mm depending on size |
| Weight | Weight not published by Trek for this version; reference: Fuel EX 9.8 XT, identical carbon frame, 15.28 kg in size M |
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At a glance
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For the sporty mountain biker who attacks technical climbs, changes gear often and wants a drivetrain that responds instantly, even under load. It will also appeal to riders who take part in regional organised MTB rides and want a bike that is as efficient uphill as it is downhill.
OCLV carbon, Trek's signature. OCLV refers to the moulding method Trek has applied to its fibres for more than thirty years: compaction under pressure and at high temperature that eliminates internal voids. Its Mountain version is designed for off-road riding, with a layup that prioritises strength against impacts. Combined with the Gen 7 Fuel EX, this carbon brings the frame kit down to 3.31 kg in M, 1.64 kg less than the aluminium version, with Trek's lifetime warranty.
| OCLV Mountain (Fuel EX 9.8 / 9.9) | Alpha NEXT Platinum (Fuel EX 5 to 9) | Road OCLV (Madone, Domane) | |
| Level | The carbon Trek reserves for mountain biking | The pinnacle of Alpha aluminium | Road range, from OCLV 500 to 900 |
| Construction | OCLV, impact resistance first | Tubes formed under fluid pressure | OCLV, weight-to-stiffness ratio first |
| Fuel EX frameset (M) | 3.31 kg | 4.95 kg | not relevant for MTB |
| What it means | Lighter bike, lifetime warranty | Heavier but durable frame | Material designed for tarmac |
In short: the 9.8 XT Di2 shares its frame, suspension, brakes and wheels with the 9.8 XT; only the derailleur changes, to wireless and electronic. Trek does not publish a weight for this version, so the 9.8 XT at 15.28 kg in M remains the most accurate reference.
Shifting from one sprocket to another mid-slope is when a drivetrain shows its limits: with Di2, the shifter takes no thumb effort, and the derailleur executes the change with the same precision every time. On the rocky ramps of the Caroux, you can keep both hands firmly on the bar.
The Fox Float X shock, with its separate reservoir and platform lever, helps maintain decent efficiency on long climbs without locking out the suspension. Combined with the 30x51, it lets you climb seated on steep sections, with the rear wheel glued to the ground.
| Model | Frame | Travel rear / front | Drivetrain | Weight (M) |
| Fuel EX 9 XT Di2 | Alpha NEXT Platinum alloy | 145 / 150 mm | Wireless Shimano XT Di2 | 16.88 kg |
| Fuel EX 9.8 XT | OCLV Mountain carbon | 145 / 150 mm | Mechanical Shimano XT | 15.28 kg |
| Fuel EX 9.8 XT Di2 | OCLV Mountain carbon | 145 / 150 mm | Wireless Shimano XT Di2 | not published |
| Fuel EX 9.9 X0 AXS | OCLV Mountain carbon | 145 / 150 mm | Wireless SRAM X0 Eagle AXS | 14.08 kg |
Our take: for the sporty rider, the 9.8 XT Di2 brings wireless consistency to the same frame as the 9.8 XT. The 9.9 X0 AXS adds carbon wheels and RockShox suspension for 14.08 kg in M.
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LVR sizing advice If you are between two sizes, the smaller one suits you if you like to place the bike and jump, the larger one if you mainly ride fast and long. Dropper post travel follows size, and the S gets a 27.5-inch rear wheel.
Source: Trek size guide. Bike fitting available in our Béziers shop. |
| Shifting under load? | Yes, Di2 allows it, but easing off the pressure a little is still better for longevity. |
| What is the lowest gear? | 30 x 51 teeth, enough to climb seated on steep slopes. |
| Useful on organised MTB rides? | Yes, the consistent drivetrain and storage hatch are invaluable over long distances. |
| Is the carmine red delicate? | The gloss paint can be protected with a film applied in the workshop to exposed areas. |
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The LVR Cycles verdict A carbon Fuel EX for the sporty rider who wants a flawless drivetrain in every situation. The glossy carmine red over matt black gives it a bold look.
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Why buy from LVR Cycles? In Béziers, we set up your Di2 drivetrain, adjust the Float X platform and prepare your Fuel EX for regional organised MTB rides.
Please note that the specifications may be changed without prior notice by the manufacturer, based on the availability of components and other factors.
Data sheet
Specific References
Carbon full-suspension mountain bike Trek Fuel EX 9.8 XT Di2 carmine red: Di2 under load, 145/150 mm
