Official Trek FX Thread
#251
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Location: St. Pete Florida
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Bikes: Trek-FX 7.2, Trek-Lexa, Trek-Cali
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I have a 2013 FX 7.2 WSD. I love, love, love this bike. So does everyone else. So I am thinking of upgrading just so I can ride the new one and lend out the 7.2. My son loved it so much he bought a new 2015 lime green one. Now to convince the others that want to borrow it to buy their own... I put fenders, and a rack on it, I have a trunk and a couple of panniers. I commute almost daily on it generally 15 miles round trip, it is my preferred bike that is in the stable and I have three others to choose from.
#252
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Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: St. Cloud, MN / Twin Cities
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Hello FX fans:
Newish rider upgrading from my garage sale bike that I've put a few seasons on and ready to upgrade. Thanks to some test rides and these forums, I've narrowed my search for a new bike to the FX 7.3 or 4, however I'm checking a few used options before sinking my $$ into a new one. Of note are a 2008 7.5 and what APPEARS to be an 2006 7.3 (owner thought it was a 2010, but as best I can tell from the Trek archives, "Burnt Orange" = 2006.)
Assuming these bikes have been recently serviced and are clean and in good shape (the latter has new tires and tubes and chain), what should my biggest concerns be about considering these older models? The person with the 7.5 is asking $550, which seems slightly high for the age, but if I could talk him down a little, I could get the carbon fork that i was hoping for, while staying closer to my $500-600 max.
Are there any huge technological advancements in the components or the weight of the frame in the last 7 years I should be aware of? Or in short: would you take a new 7.3 over 7yo 7.5?
It's possible all my questions will be answered when I go ride these, but given the nature of a CL deal, I need to going in prepared. I've ridden the new models and know how they feel as a baseline.
Any thoughts? Thanks in advance...
Newish rider upgrading from my garage sale bike that I've put a few seasons on and ready to upgrade. Thanks to some test rides and these forums, I've narrowed my search for a new bike to the FX 7.3 or 4, however I'm checking a few used options before sinking my $$ into a new one. Of note are a 2008 7.5 and what APPEARS to be an 2006 7.3 (owner thought it was a 2010, but as best I can tell from the Trek archives, "Burnt Orange" = 2006.)
Assuming these bikes have been recently serviced and are clean and in good shape (the latter has new tires and tubes and chain), what should my biggest concerns be about considering these older models? The person with the 7.5 is asking $550, which seems slightly high for the age, but if I could talk him down a little, I could get the carbon fork that i was hoping for, while staying closer to my $500-600 max.
Are there any huge technological advancements in the components or the weight of the frame in the last 7 years I should be aware of? Or in short: would you take a new 7.3 over 7yo 7.5?
It's possible all my questions will be answered when I go ride these, but given the nature of a CL deal, I need to going in prepared. I've ridden the new models and know how they feel as a baseline.
Any thoughts? Thanks in advance...
Last edited by bbushman; 08-05-15 at 09:42 PM.
#253
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Join Date: Jul 2015
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Nice looking bike, Banker! A LBS is bringing in a Volt Green 7.3 for me to take a look at in person so I might be getting the same one as you. Quick question.. What saddle bag is that? It looks like a perfect fit under there.
#255
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Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: Little Rock, AR
Posts: 17
Bikes: Trek Émonda ALR 4, Trek 7.2 FX Disc
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I have to agree when it comes to the sensor itself. The DuoTrap S fits nicely on the bike with a clean install (no zip ties, etc.). Once I got the battery flipped around the right way, I was able to give it a good test yesterday on a 9+ mile ride using it with my iPhone via Bluetooth LE. I am still trying to find the "right" app, but I am starting with Strava and it seems to work pretty well. Strava detected the sensor with no issues and was able to record data from it. The only thing I am trying to figure out with this app, is whether or not it has the ability to fine tune the accuracy by giving it a wheel size. I want to try Cyclemeter as well, but it wants me to pay for the premium version to pair sensors to it, even though there is no guarantee that my sensor works with it. At least the Strava lets me do this for free.
Granted, the route I took is covered with dense tree canopies, but this is where the Garmin really comes in handy. It uses both regular GPS and GLONASS, so its overall accuracy is vastly improved in such conditions. Also, the Garmin Connect part of the whole experience allows for elevation corrections in areas with published survey data, since only their higher-end computers have built-in barometric altimeters (which the iPhone also doesn't have), which can help better track your rides for difficulty, especially when you want to be able to compare future rides to see how much your overall cycling fitness is improving.
All that said, the DuoTrap S is a great sensor, and it will work with just about any cycling app that can pair with Bluetooth speed/candence sensors. Just be aware that using it with iPhone and/or Android apps, while able to give accurate speed and cadence data, will struggle to provide accurate distance/route data, since they are more likely than not to rely on GPS for distance rather than calculating it from the sensor and a dialed-in wheel size.
I hope this helps.
Last edited by ljrhodes; 08-18-15 at 07:20 AM.
#256
Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: Little Rock, AR
Posts: 17
Bikes: Trek Émonda ALR 4, Trek 7.2 FX Disc
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Welcome to the club @stuman74! I am new as well! Digging the black. Is that a gloss black or a matte black finish? Any upgrades in the future for your bike?
#259
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Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: Springfield, MO
Posts: 19
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Hi all - I've been only on some short rides with the kids and haven't had a chance to go all out... and dragging a 'trail-a-bike' attached to the stem is helping train me for the zombie apocolypse.. But I've noticed that on my 7.3 that my hands are sometimes getting a little numb. I have the stock grips, but wondering if it's more likely a seat angle problem or just getting used to the pressure on the heels of my hands.
#260
Senior Member
Hi all - I've been only on some short rides with the kids and haven't had a chance to go all out... and dragging a 'trail-a-bike' attached to the stem is helping train me for the zombie apocolypse.. But I've noticed that on my 7.3 that my hands are sometimes getting a little numb. I have the stock grips, but wondering if it's more likely a seat angle problem or just getting used to the pressure on the heels of my hands.
#261
Senior Member
I have a 2013 FX 7.2 WSD. I love, love, love this bike. So does everyone else. So I am thinking of upgrading just so I can ride the new one and lend out the 7.2. My son loved it so much he bought a new 2015 lime green one. Now to convince the others that want to borrow it to buy their own... I put fenders, and a rack on it, I have a trunk and a couple of panniers. I commute almost daily on it generally 15 miles round trip, it is my preferred bike that is in the stable and I have three others to choose from.
#262
Senior Member
#263
Senior Member
Hello FX fans:
Newish rider upgrading from my garage sale bike that I've put a few seasons on and ready to upgrade. Thanks to some test rides and these forums, I've narrowed my search for a new bike to the FX 7.3 or 4, however I'm checking a few used options before sinking my $$ into a new one. Of note are a 2008 7.5 and what APPEARS to be an 2006 7.3 (owner thought it was a 2010, but as best I can tell from the Trek archives, "Burnt Orange" = 2006.)
Assuming these bikes have been recently serviced and are clean and in good shape (the latter has new tires and tubes and chain), what should my biggest concerns be about considering these older models? The person with the 7.5 is asking $550, which seems slightly high for the age, but if I could talk him down a little, I could get the carbon fork that i was hoping for, while staying closer to my $500-600 max.
Are there any huge technological advancements in the components or the weight of the frame in the last 7 years I should be aware of? Or in short: would you take a new 7.3 over 7yo 7.5?
It's possible all my questions will be answered when I go ride these, but given the nature of a CL deal, I need to going in prepared. I've ridden the new models and know how they feel as a baseline.
Any thoughts? Thanks in advance...
Newish rider upgrading from my garage sale bike that I've put a few seasons on and ready to upgrade. Thanks to some test rides and these forums, I've narrowed my search for a new bike to the FX 7.3 or 4, however I'm checking a few used options before sinking my $$ into a new one. Of note are a 2008 7.5 and what APPEARS to be an 2006 7.3 (owner thought it was a 2010, but as best I can tell from the Trek archives, "Burnt Orange" = 2006.)
Assuming these bikes have been recently serviced and are clean and in good shape (the latter has new tires and tubes and chain), what should my biggest concerns be about considering these older models? The person with the 7.5 is asking $550, which seems slightly high for the age, but if I could talk him down a little, I could get the carbon fork that i was hoping for, while staying closer to my $500-600 max.
Are there any huge technological advancements in the components or the weight of the frame in the last 7 years I should be aware of? Or in short: would you take a new 7.3 over 7yo 7.5?
It's possible all my questions will be answered when I go ride these, but given the nature of a CL deal, I need to going in prepared. I've ridden the new models and know how they feel as a baseline.
Any thoughts? Thanks in advance...
I had a 2006 7.3 FX which I purchased off Clist. Not a bad bike - very solid with decent components. Mine was like a grayish color, although the Trek archives do not list the color. I have since picked up a 7.4 and I can tell you that there is a difference in technology, components, ride, etc. The carbon fork I find is just great!
I am not sure what the seller is asking for the 7.3 FX, however personally I would go with the 7.5 FX. It will have better components, lighter, and ride better. I don't think the asking price is awfully high for the bike but you can certainly wheel and deal.
Concerns: Check the frame for cracks, marks in paint, check rims/wheels for any signs of abuse. and ride them to see what feels better.
#265
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Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: St. Cloud, MN / Twin Cities
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Thanks, yashinon! This is exactly what I was looking for. As it stands, I checked out those bikes, and they were not in nearly the condition I was hoping, and I got a great mid/end of season deal (and 6mo no interest financing) on a brand new 2015 7.4. I agree with your assessment: the drivetrain on the 7.4 is smooth and I like the ratios on the 3x9 gearing, and in addition to vibration dampening, the weight of the carbon fork makes it feel super responsive and fun to ride. I've put about 55 miles on it so far, and I'm really pleased. I've been in a few situations where the slightly nubbier tires they've been putting on the 7.3 would be nice, but all in all, I'm really happy with my choice.
#266
Senior Member
Thanks, yashinon! This is exactly what I was looking for. As it stands, I checked out those bikes, and they were not in nearly the condition I was hoping, and I got a great mid/end of season deal (and 6mo no interest financing) on a brand new 2015 7.4. I agree with your assessment: the drivetrain on the 7.4 is smooth and I like the ratios on the 3x9 gearing, and in addition to vibration dampening, the weight of the carbon fork makes it feel super responsive and fun to ride. I've put about 55 miles on it so far, and I'm really pleased. I've been in a few situations where the slightly nubbier tires they've been putting on the 7.3 would be nice, but all in all, I'm really happy with my choice.
#267
Senior Member
#268
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Location: St. Cloud, MN / Twin Cities
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What kind of terrain do you ride your Conti's on? How do you find them? To be clear- I don't mind the hard ride on these so much, and for now, I am MOSTLY on pavement. And I love how they handle when I cut across a little grass or packed gravel, or concrete trails. Just no idea what my options and trade offs are when it comes to tires. Did you have the stock 32's before you got your Contis? In my imagination, roads in upstate NY must be at least somewhat similar to what we have here in MN. Thanks in advance...
#269
Senior Member
Yeah, figured as much. Still a little lost on all the variables when it comes to tire widths etc. These stock Bontrager 32's feel pretty fast to me, but I haven't ridden much on real road tires; & they are still definitely a little scary when I hit a decent patch of sand, loose gravel, or mud (and bumpy on many of the salt-riddled roads up here.)
What kind of terrain do you ride your Conti's on? How do you find them? To be clear- I don't mind the hard ride on these so much, and for now, I am MOSTLY on pavement. And I love how they handle when I cut across a little grass or packed gravel, or concrete trails. Just no idea what my options and trade offs are when it comes to tires. Did you have the stock 32's before you got your Contis? In my imagination, roads in upstate NY must be at least somewhat similar to what we have here in MN. Thanks in advance...
What kind of terrain do you ride your Conti's on? How do you find them? To be clear- I don't mind the hard ride on these so much, and for now, I am MOSTLY on pavement. And I love how they handle when I cut across a little grass or packed gravel, or concrete trails. Just no idea what my options and trade offs are when it comes to tires. Did you have the stock 32's before you got your Contis? In my imagination, roads in upstate NY must be at least somewhat similar to what we have here in MN. Thanks in advance...
I can tell you that the Bontrager tires are very sturdy and the hard case features is great! Certainly gives you confidence when riding. I founds about the Conti Gatorskins from this forum. I am wondering how the 700 x 25 Bontrager Hard Case tires feel. Anyone using them?
#270
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Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: St. Cloud, MN / Twin Cities
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I ride on pavement; local roads and paved bike paths. On the 7.3 FX i rode the stock Bonrtager tires and they were sluggish. I weigh in lighter and 5'6"-ish. I switched the tires on that bike to Conti Gatorskins and felt a difference...
I can tell you that the Bontrager tires are very sturdy and the hard case features is great! Certainly gives you confidence when riding. I founds about the Conti Gatorskins from this forum. I am wondering how the 700 x 25 Bontrager Hard Case tires feel. Anyone using them?
I can tell you that the Bontrager tires are very sturdy and the hard case features is great! Certainly gives you confidence when riding. I founds about the Conti Gatorskins from this forum. I am wondering how the 700 x 25 Bontrager Hard Case tires feel. Anyone using them?
Would definitely be curious about experiences with the 25's in the Bontrager...
#271
Senior Member
Yeah, I'm 5'7", though a little heavier than I should be Your original 7.3 would have had the Bontrager 35's instead of 32's, right? As far as sturdy- you've got that right. Though not as forgiving as the Kendas I was riding on my old beater, these things feel bombproof.
Would definitely be curious about experiences with the 25's in the Bontrager...
Would definitely be curious about experiences with the 25's in the Bontrager...
#272
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Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: St. Cloud, MN / Twin Cities
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@Ktel– yay! Congrats! I'm about 10 days into my 2015 7.4, same color, and I'm in the same place– started @ the .2/.3, fell in love with this one, and did manage to get a decent deal on it. Almost 90 miles later, I'm glad I went for it... love the carbon fork, and actually, really love the extra gearing; makes for very smooth acceleration, or getting a little extra torque after I get my revolutions up without changing things up too much. I'm thinking of picking up a mirror for my helmet soon, and considering bar ends for longer rides... my hands do go numb around 14-15 miles if I don't stop, but all in all, I'm just having a blast riding. Enjoy!
#273
Senior Member
7.2fx here! 1100 miles so far in 4 months, my first bike since I was a kid.
Mods go,
bar ends, water bottle holders x2, headlight, taillight, phone mount, duotrap S sensor, and a bontrager saddle bag. The bar ends are by far the most important thing I have bought to improve this ride.
I don't even use my padded gloves anymore for 20-50 mile rides.
Mods go,
bar ends, water bottle holders x2, headlight, taillight, phone mount, duotrap S sensor, and a bontrager saddle bag. The bar ends are by far the most important thing I have bought to improve this ride.
I don't even use my padded gloves anymore for 20-50 mile rides.
#274
Hi all...I took my wife to look at some bikes this past weekend. She actually liked the 7.2 FX, but liked the men's bike in 17.5 frame more than the WSD version (I think mainly because the liked the black color). Is there any reason that she should not consider the standard/men's version? If it seemed comfortable for her and sized ok, I'd figure it should be fine. Thanks!
#275
Senior Member
Hi all...I took my wife to look at some bikes this past weekend. She actually liked the 7.2 FX, but liked the men's bike in 17.5 frame more than the WSD version (I think mainly because the liked the black color). Is there any reason that she should not consider the standard/men's version? If it seemed comfortable for her and sized ok, I'd figure it should be fine. Thanks!
On the other hand, WHY DON'T SHE GET A PINK BIKE!