CyclistsHub is supported by its readers. We may receive a commission if you buy products using our links (learn more).
Unlike the Trek bikes under $500, the $1000 price range offers more options.
So, you will find the best Trek bikes for under $1000 for men and women in this article. It includes hybrid, cruiser, and mountain bikes.
I will disappoint you if you are looking for a Trek road or gravel bike in this price range. Those start at around $1200. But you can check online marketplaces for second-hand alternatives.
Let’s now explore those that meet your budget.
What Are the Best Trek Bikes Under $1000?
I selected the following bikes mainly based on customer reviews and comparing them with alternatives from a given and similar product families.
Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 (Best Trek Mountain Bike Under $1000)
A modern-looking mountain bike for those who want to taste cross-country, tackle trails, or have a versatile commuter machine.
Main Features
- Modern-looking frame and geometry
- SR Suntour suspension fork with 100 mm travel for a more comfortable ride
- 29-inch wheels
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Mounts for accessories for easy storage capacity extension
- Wide handlebar with ergonomic grips
- Platform pedals included
- Available in multiple colors
Technical Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Weight: 14.11 kg / 31.11 lbs [M]
- Drivetrain: 10-speed Shimano Deore
- Wheels: 27.5″ or 29″ (depending on the bike size)
- Tires: Bontrager XR2 Comp
- Suitable for heights: 4’9″ – 6’8″ (145 – 203 cm)
Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 is the best Trek mountain bike for under $1000. This is because it will bring you closer to an experience from a proper XC racing machine.
It follows modern standards like the 1X drivetrain, wide handlebar, or racing geometry.
You can rely on its Tektro hydraulic brakes in any weather condition. They provide better stopping power than rim brakes.
Depending on the size you choose, it has 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheels. I find them more comfortable than the outdated 26-inch wheels used in the past.
The Marlin family includes other models (like the Marlin 4, 5, 7, etc.). The Marlin 7 Gen 2 is slightly over $1000 but has a better RockShox fork.
Marlin bikes are also similar to Trek Dual Sport bikes (e.g., Dual Sport 2 Gen 4). Those are more suitable for recreational riders and less demanding terrain.
This is because their geometry is more relaxed, have different gearing ratios, narrower tires, and DuoTrap S sensors.
The Marlin 6 Gen 2 has a few downsides, though. It’s relatively heavy, and the Shimano Deore groupset is on the lower side of the spectrum.
Trek FX 2 Disc
A road-like hybrid bike suitable for maintaining your fitness or commuting, ideal for paved roads.
Main Features
- Available for men and women
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Wide gear range
- DuoTrap S sensor for tracking speed and cadence
Technical Specifications
- Frame material: Steel
- Weight: 18.14 kg / 40 lbs [M]
- Drivetrain: Shimano Acera/Altus (3×9spd)
- Wheels: 700c (29-inch)
- Tires: Bontrager H2 Com, 700x35c
- Suitable for heights: 5’1″ – 6’1″ (155 – 186 cm)
The Trek FX 2 Disc is a hybrid bike designed to ride fast. Its narrower tires and more aggressive, sporty geometry are similar to road bikes and allow you to maintain higher speeds than bikes with wide tires.
You can ride further without spending as much energy. The FX family is perfect for medium to long trips (dozens of miles) and for maintaining your fitness level.
It will track your speed and cadence using the DuoTrap S sensor that also transfers the signal to your head unit or a smartphone.
FX 2 Disc is available in plenty of sizes. But more importantly, in a women-specific step-through option.
The FX 3 Disc has better components, but it’s outside the $1000 limit. The FX 1 Disc, on the other hand, is more affordable but equipped with entry-level components.
The slight price increase of the FX 2 Disc and the value it offers make it the golden mean.
Electra Townie 7D EQ
Accessories-rich cruiser bike suitable for flat or rolling terrain for those who appreciate style.
Main Features
- Available for men and women
- Durable steel frame
- Wide saddle for a comfortable ride in an upright position
- Fenders, chainguard, lights, and platform pedals included
Technical Specifications
- Frame material: Steel
- Weight: 15.90 kg / 35 lbs [M]
- Drivetrain: 7-spd Shimano Tourney
- Wheels: 26″
- Tires: Bontrager E6 Hard-Case Lite 26×2.00″ w/reflective stripe
- Suitable for heights: 5’3″ – 6’3″ (160 – 191 cm)
Townie* 7D EQ is an accessories-rich cruiser bike with a few perks.
*Electra is Trek’s brand of city and commuter bikes, e-bikes, and accessories.
First, you appreciate the 7-spd Shimano Tourney groupset, so you won’t be limited to flats only, thanks to easier gears.
Second, it has fenders and chainguard to protect you against splashing water and entangling your trousers into the chain.
And finally, the in-built dynamo powers the front and wheel lights, increasing your visibility and safety on the bike.
Furthermore, it’s available in plenty of colors and step-over and step-through options.
You probably won’t break speed records on this bicycle. But I guarantee you will still enjoy the ride.
Trek Bikes Under $1000 FAQ
Conclusion
Based on my research, I recommend checking out the following three Trek bikes for under $1000:
- Trek Marlin 6 Gen 2 mountain bike is ideal for cross-country or those looking for versatility. It follows modern trends like the sporty geometry, hydraulic disc brakes, wide handlebar, suspension fork, etc.
- Trek FX 2 Disc hybrid bike (also available in a step-through option) is ideal for people who want a fast bike that will provide them with an almost road-bike-like experience. Take trips, commute, or maintain your fitness!
- Electra Townie 7D EQ cruiser (also available in a step-through option) is the exact opposite of the FX 2 Disc. Maybe you want to take things easy and enjoy the ride. That’s what this cruiser was designed for. And thanks to the in-build dynamo that powers the lights, you will be seen even in the dark.
Which bike type do you prefer? Let me know in the comments.
Preview picture source: trekbikes.com