Trek FX 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 and FX Sport 4 vs. 5 vs. 6 Compared: Which One to Choose?

Trek FX 1, 2, 3, and FX Sport 4, 5, 6 hybrid bikes compared (top tubes shot from the top).

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In this article, I’ll help you navigate the Trek FX hybrid bike family by comparing the FX 1, 2, 3, and FX Sport 4, 5, and 6.

You’ll learn about the differences between each model, who they are best suited for, and more. 

Plus, I’ll tell you which model gives you the best value for your money to help make your decision easier.

Trek FX 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 and FX Sport 4 vs. 5 vs. 6

The following table summarizes the main differences between all FXs and FXs Sport, Trek’s hybrid bike families.

FX 1FX 2FX 3FX Sport 4FX Sport 5FX Sport 6
Price$599.99$799.99$1,049.99$1,799.99$2,099.99$2,799.99
FrameAluminumAluminumAluminumCarbonCarbonCarbon
ForkSteelAluminumCarbonCarbonCarbonCarbon
Available sizesXS-XXLXS-XXLXS-XXLXS-XLS-XLXS-XL
WheelsBontrager ConnectionBontrager ConnectionBontrager
tubeless-ready
Bontrager Paradigm
tubeless-ready
Bontrager Paradigm
tubeless-ready
Bontrager Aeolus Elite 35
tubeless-ready
Wheel size700c700c700c700c700c700c
TiresBontrager H2 Comp
35c
Bontrager H2 Comp
35c
Bontrager H2 Comp
32c
Bontrager GR1 Expert
40c
Bontrager GR1 Expert
40c
Bontrager GR1 Team Issue, tubeless-ready
40c
DrivetrainShimano Tourney/Altus
3×8spd
Shimano Altus/Acera
2×9spd
Shimano Deore
1×10spd
Shimano Deore
2×10spd
Shimano GRX
1×11spd
Shimano GRX
1×11spd
PedalsWellgo nylon platformBontrager City pedalsBontrager City pedalsBontrager City pedalsVPE-993TVPE-993T
SaddleBontrager SportBontrager SportBontrager H1Bontrager H1Bontrager Montrose CompBontrager Montrose Comp
GripsBontrager SatelliteBontrager SatelliteBontrager Satellite IsoZone Plus
Lock-on
Bontrager Satellite IsoZone Plus
Lock-on
Bontrager Satellite IsoZone Plus
Lock-on
Bontrager Satellite IsoZone Plus
Lock-on
BrakesTektro MD-U310 mechanical discTektro HD-R280 hydraulic discShimano MT201
hydraulic disc
Promax DSK-927
hydraulic disc
Shimano MT201
hydraulic disc
Shimano MT201
hydraulic disc
Weight12.68 kg
27.96 lbs
11.73 kg
25.87 lbs
11.38 kg
25.09 lbs
10.74 kg
23.68 lbs
10.10 kg
22.27 lbs
9.47 kg
20.88 lbs
BuyBuy FX 1
Buy FX 1 step-through
Buy FX 2
Buy FX 2 step-through
Buy FX 3
Buy FX 1 step-through
Buy FX Sport 4Buy FX Sport 5Buy FX Sport 6
This table compares the features of Trek FX (1-3) and FX Sport (4-6) Disc.
Specifications source: trekbikes.com, updated 26/04/2023

FX (Sport) Pros & Cons Summary

I summarized the pros & cons of the FX (Sport) series below.

FX (Sport) Pros

  • Relaxed geometry for a comfortable ride
  • Suitable for a wide range of terrains
  • Aluminum or carbon frame
  • Availability in multiple sizes and colors
  • Pedals included
  • Compatible with racks, kickstands, etc.
  • Compatible with DuoTrap S sensor
  • Partially internal cable routing
  • Lifetime warranty

FX (Sport) Cons

  • Some bikes have a narrow gear range
  • Some models don’t come with tubeless-ready wheels or tires
  • No suspension (can be a pro due to the lower weight)

Also available as a step-through

Also available as a step-through

Also available as a step-through

FX Main Features

Let me now explain the most important features of the Trek FX and FX Sport bikes and compare these two families.

Frame and Geometry

All FX bikes come with an aluminum frame, available in XS-XXL sizes, but with forks made of different materials – steel, aluminum, or carbon.

FX Sport bikes have a high-end carbon frame with a carbon fork, resulting in lower weight and better riding comfort due to carbon’s ability to absorb road vibrations.

Trek FX (top) vs. Trek FX Sport (bottom) comparison.
Trek FX vs. Trek FX Sport | Product image source: trekbikes.com

Their geometry also differs slightly. Despite the name suggesting a more performance-oriented geometry, the FX Sport is surprisingly more relaxed, allowing you to sit more upright.

The geometry of both FX families is relaxed enough for less flexible riders and those who prefer comfort over the speed that comes from a more aggressive, and therefore more aerodynamic, stance.

Trek FX vs. FX Sport geometry comparison using the bikeinsights.com tool. FX is more aggressive than FX Sport.
Trek FX vs. FX Sport geometry comparison using the bikeinsights.com tool

Finally, it is important to add that FX bikes are also available in a step-through version suitable for women. FX Sport bikes are not.

Wheels and Tires

The wheel size on FX bikes is the same as on most hybrid bikes – 700c – but with wider tires than those used on road bikes, ranging from 32 to 40mm. The tire clearance is up to 45mm.

The tires have a pattern to provide increased traction on light gravel or dirt roads but are not suitable for demanding terrain like mountain bike tires.

Trek FX Bontrager Connection wheel and H2 Comp tire detail.
Trek FX tires | Product image source: trekbikes.com

Remember that some models have tubeless-ready wheels but don’t come with tubeless-ready tires, so you may need to swap them later if you want.

Also, the higher-end the bike, the better the wheels. For example, the Trek FX Sport 6 has carbon Bontrager wheels that are lighter, stiffer, and a bit faster than the aluminum ones.

Also available as a step-through

Also available as a step-through

Also available as a step-through

Groupset

While the FX family offers a wider range of gears thanks to 2X and 3X drivetrains, the FX Sport has a narrower gear range due to the 1X drivetrains.

1X drivetrains are popular because they are easy to maintain and shift and lighter than 2X or 3X groupsets.

However, their disadvantage is a smaller gear range. So, depending on the terrain you often want to ride, you may occasionally miss some gears. On the other hand, you don’t have to worry about cross-chaining.

Brakes

Although the FX series offers entry-level models with rim brakes (which are also a bit cheaper), the industry’s pressure has pushed for disc brakes.

Disc brakes are more effective, especially in the rain, as they do not lose their braking power. The debate between supporters and opponents of disc and rim brakes seems endless.

Trek FX and FX Sport mechanical/hydraulic disc brakes.
Trek FX and FX Sport disc brakes | Product image source: trekbikes.com

All FX bikes, except for one model, use hydraulic disc brakes. Check out this article for the differences between mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes.

Since hybrid bikes often don’t require as much braking power as mountain bikes, you can rely on sufficient stopping power for all the used brakes.

Extras

Another difference between FX and FX Sport is cable routing. On Trek FX, it is partially integrated, while on FX Sport, it is almost completely integrated, including the area around the handlebars, simplifying and improving the overall appearance.

All FX and FX Sport bikes are compatible with the DuoTrap S sensor, sold separately, which measures your speed, distance, and more. You can pair it with a speedometer or bike computer.

Trek FX with DuoTrap S sensor (detail).
Trek FX DuoTrap S | Product image source: trekbikes.com

FX frames have mounts for kickstands and racks, making it easy to install these accessories. You can also leverage the Blendr stem to easily attach compatible accessories from the Trek/Bontrager ecosystem.

Lastly, most FX bikes come with slip-on grips, while all FX Sport models have lock-on grips that are easier to install and replace than slip-on grips. FX Sport bikes also use better IsoZone grips that are more comfortable and alleviate the pressure on your hands.

Trek FX FAQ

My Verdict

So, which bike should you choose between Trek FX and Trek FX Sport? And which bike from each family is the best?

If you’re on a tighter budget and looking for an affordable bike for commuting and leisure riding, then go for Trek FX. These bikes are mostly sufficient for beginners.

Trek FX Sport bikes are more expensive due to their carbon frames, which result in much lower weight. They resemble road bikes with flat handlebars and are suitable for those looking for a lightweight and comfortable hybrid bike. Just remember that their gear range is more limited.

I believe the FX 2 Disc provides the best value for the money from the FX family. First, you avoid an obsolete 3X drivetrain on the FX 1 Disc. Then, you get hydraulic disc brakes, significant weight reduction, and better components. While the price difference between the FX 2 and FX 3 is relatively large, the added value is not as significant.

Also available as a step-through

Also available as a step-through

Also available as a step-through

The best bike from the Trek FX Sport family is the mid-range FX Sport 5 Disc, as it uses a simple 1X drivetrain and is much lighter than the FX Sport 4.

While the Trek FX Sport 6 is much lighter, mainly due to the carbon wheels, it is also much more expensive.

About The Author

2 thoughts on “Trek FX 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 and FX Sport 4 vs. 5 vs. 6 Compared: Which One to Choose?”

  1. Profile picture of Petr Minarik - the founder of cyclistshub.com

    Thanks for the article, I’m trying to decide on a new hybrid and I have my eye on an FX 3 Disc or FX Sport 4. Unfortunately at least one of your specs is inaccurate for both of these bikes – both have a 1×10 drivetrain, instead of a 2×10 which you have in the table, while you specifically call out the 2x and 3x drivetrains as a benefit of the FX series. I am hesitant about the more limited range but I do like the simplicity and weight savings, and it does seem to be where things are headed anyway.

    1. Profile picture of Petr Minarik - the founder of cyclistshub.com

      Hi Anne,
      Thanks for noticing that. I fixed the info.
      I would say that the gear range also depends on the area you live in. If you have a lot of hills and climbs there, a wider gear range might be more useful. But the simplicity of shifting can overweigh. I know many recreational riders who don’t use their entire gear range, so 1X groupsets should be enough for them.
      I hope this helps. 🙂
      – Petr

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