I owned a few bikes incl this FX3. There are no all sorts of reviewers out there but this Jamesthebikeguy deserves to be paid for his work: erudite and spot on.
I’ve had the FX three for two years and I’m 270 pounds and I cannot get up steep hills with this. I also have a Cannondale synapse carbon which is way faster but not as comfortable so if I can shed 50 pounds this will be the perfect bike for me. Also, the tires are a bit slow. I plan on putting Grand Prix 5000 on it.
Thank you so much for this review. I had a FX2 2021 and it is a fine bike. I had to upgrade to this bike after reading your review. The upgrades most important to me are: The carbon fork, it makes an amazing difference to the comfort of your ride. The ISO Grip handle bars. They really do make a difference to comfort for the hands. (I have arthritis in my hands and they can get really stiff). Also, the flattened nature of the hand grips help you to rest your hands while riding). The single gear changing system for reduced maintenance, there are enough gears to keep you happy. Altogether, I’m really happy with this bike. Thanks James.
I own an FX3. I put it in a garage for months after I bought it and the chain rotted very badly. No doubt my neglect but I was a little surprised and had to replace it. Other than that it's been very good. The gear changes are so easy I find I tend to micro-adjust up and down a gear constantly, so I always feel comfortable. I have an XXL model, and it's great that they have this size and that it's seriously rangey. It's the best bike I've owned.
I have a 2021 fx3 and have been enjoying it. Price wise, it felt like a good middle ground for the type of riding that I am doing. If I lived closer to some hills, I would be tempted to jump to the carbon models, but for mostly flat terrain, the weight doesn’t matter so much. Overall, the long wheelbase and big tires makes it very comfortable on the road. Bumps are hardly noticeable. Yet, it still feels fairly efficient without being too stiff. Uphill, it is a bit heavy, but the low gearing helps.
Got mine today, did the first 16km uphill and it is Great, trimmed down my best time on my 2022 Xcaliber 8 by 2 minutes!!! I'm keepung both bikes and now will be looking forward to get an emonda ALR 5 to have a bike for every occasion. Great review James!
@@fancyobsession1803 You're supposed to peddle with the ball of your foot. In which case the scenario you ask about would never happen. Unless of course you had a size 17 shoe then all bets would be off
Thank you very much for this review. I just put a deposit on this one today, and I pick it up on Friday! I was back and forth between the DS3 and the FX2 Disc but then decided the 1x drivetrain appealed to me more, plus the carbon fork is a plus. Mid 30's, haven't owned a bike since I was a kid and sometimes drove my dad's a bit back in high school lol.
@@kiwi22207 I don't fully run out the gears and I really like it. However, I upgraded to a road bike (Domane) with drop bars, which I find to be way more fun!
This is my first new bike in over 20 years and I love it. I attach a tagalong bike for my 4 year old and we have done close to 100 miles together. The disk breaks stop my heavy load without any problems.
@@comounaverdura I will buy another FX3 when I get the cash or insurance money. The thief broke into the emergency override key box to get into our parking garage. Made it into the room where my storage locker is because the door may not have been shut all the way, or he had the code, then separated the hinges to my chain link fence storage locker. I have video of the guy and the police are working on it since he stole a car from our building early the next morning.
@@MrRyanSchneider Woah! It seems like he targeted you. That criminal must have a drug addiction. I was looking at a Trek FX3 also. They seem like great bikes.
I have this exact bike- picked it up 2 years ago. It's very fast, and a blast to ride. I would recommend the first upgrade to be a more comfortable seat.
Without owning a FX3 (I own a FX2) I would worry about 1) the loss of eight intermediate gear ratios and 2) the thinner bike chain. But putting those concerns aside what I like about the FX2 which the FX3 clearly cannot match is the ability to jump two+ ratios with the front derailleur with a single flick of my finger. I usually poke along in the front's high gear but if an unexpected incline appears I can quickly react to meet the challenge. (Meanwhile the FX1, though having three additional intermediate gear ratios over the FX2, is deficient in comparison with mechanical braking and a lower quality front derailleur.)
I am debating between the fx2 and fx3. I can see the benefits of a 1x but I know its con compared to a 2x. I keep going back and forth between the Trek fx2 and fx3 as my top choice upgrade hybrid bike.
Hey it’s cool but my FX2 (‘022 QuickSilver) has been GREAT! The 2X is the “upgrade” for ‘022!!..and it’s just enough to give the Rider what’s needed to attack Hills & Various terrain! On the FX3, that Carbon Fork may be cool and efficient but damage it in ANY way, ..and you’ll feel the pain of repair, warranty and “go thru it” ..replacement blues! (TREK Support may annoy or vary some for sure..🙄good luck wit’ that huh) So, if you are “on the fence” about that Drive Train and real advantage..(weight vs damage ) ..I’d go with the Trek FX2 version! If you don’t care about $$$$,..and have your Heart set on the FX3,..then Go For It!! 🤨Gotta state here tho’ that the FX2 is Rugged, Fast , and Rides just as well if set up for Rider is right! b(‘_ < )
I have this bike in the stagger frame. I love it! It's my first hybrid with a rigid fork (and carbon fiber at that). I love that it is lighter than my Dual Sport which has a suspension fork instead. I'm not really missing the suspension since I ride mostly on road or dirt or gravel trails. This bike also comes with tubeless ready rims (I don't think that was mentioned in the video) and I did add on a tubeless set up. That is nice as well. Also liking the 10x drivetrain and I added a bell since I don't have a shifter by the left handle. The only thing I don't like so far is that the paint is easily scratched, which is a shame because I love the blue color!
@@JimS870 The FX. The DS is a good bike but for me, the FX works out better for the surfaces I ride on and I like the simpler 1x10 drivetrain better. That being said, if you get the DS, I would make sure there is a suspension fork lock-out and I think the DS3 also has a 1x drivetrain.
Thanks for the great video! I saw this bike at the Trek store in Seattle and absolutely love it! Your video really helped me understand this bike! I plan on buying it in the near future!
Just bought this yesterday. This is my first non-Academy bike. I am now learning the difference between this and my older Ozone bike from Academy. I did experience the drop chain on the older bike I have. Not fun.
I think the fx 3 is the best value of the fx line, at least for 2022. Anything above this is too expensive for what you get and anything lower is the same story. It remains to be seen if it holds up over time
I have been critical of TREK bikes in the past because of the price / components offered.....but after test riding this FX 3 Disc I bought it! I’ve tested Giant...Cannondale....Specialized....Scott....and Jamis. This bike was the one for me. Tubeless tires might be the only future upgrade. Thanks for the excellent review James👍🏻
I really like that Trek is providing 1x setup with FX3 and DS3 with 2022 models for around $1000. Only thing I don’t like is that they still use 100 year old quick release for the back. Anything $1000 or above should have thru axle on both ends. Their 2022 C-Caliber 9 is an amazing bike with components and features as a hardtail, yet, is is a quick release in the back! That killed me!!!
I used mine heavily for three years and loved it but after buying a Domane haven’t looked back. I’m 3mph faster than on the FX3 on average and it’s at least as comfortable. Wish I’d just started on the Domane.
I'm considering one of these. The welding looks atrocious, though, and I suspect the change from 2 x 9 to 1 x 10 gearing with the latest model is purely to reduce production costs. I'll look at the Boardman HYB 8.8 as well.
My 2021 model (which I think has the exact same frame) cracked at the weld between the seat tube and top tube. Buy it new though and you'll have a lifetime warranty on the frame. They'll replace the whole bike free of charge.
I just purchased a 2023 fx3...haven't taken it through its paces yet! I plan on replacing the tires...too heavy. It will be a change foe when I don't want to ride my road bike ( Domaine) or get out with the wife....hopefully.
James, loved the video! Quick question here…a friend and I are each buying this bike on Saturday. Our first new bike purchase as we are both newbies to this. You said that you would upgrade the tires? That’s been an ongoing discussion between us. What’s your issue with this tire and If YOU upgraded, what would switch to? Suggestions? Thanks!
thanks for this video, you have not reviewed FX 4 disc 2021, what's your opinion? this model sells at the same price as FX 3 disc 2022 now. Which one would you recommend? thx
Love your videos. I'm currently shopping and looking at the FX 2 and FX 3 Disc models. Here in Canada the FX 3 is priced at $220 CDN ($173 US) more than the FX 2. Do you think the extra cost is worth it?
This has been bothering me as well. All of the Carbon sports have 40mm tires with gravel style treads. You would think that the faster carbon bikes would have the smaller slicker tires.
Low end Shimano stuff lasts if taken care off, doesn't matter if it's acera or alivio, but I would avoid tourney if possible(clean and lube chain, don't leave the bike in the rain etc), and upgrading to a high-end end component every time the existing one wears out is not expensive and well worth it, like for example the rear brake, tires, chain etc. I doubt most people in the western world keep a bike for more than 10 years anyway, my oldest bike is 40 years old and is still running, with a mix of mid to high level oem components (campy and suntour stuff). In conclusion, the bike will last as long as the owner cares for it, it's just metal in the end.
The trend toward fewer gears is a good one, but why are the FX 1 and 2 both 2x set ups with 16 and 18 speeds respectively, and the FX 3 is 1x10? What’s the reasoning by Trek?
I've got FX2 2022, if you are going uphills and care to have 2x speed on front and a better seat, FX2 is definetly worth than FX3 plus saving $220. I would never get FX3 even if i had spare money.
Definitely go fx3 for carbon fork to dampen the ride since this has narrower tire than the verve. 1x is the way to go if it will get decent use as it’s far less maintenance and you are willing to give up a bit of top end speed. For majority of riders the 1x is more than enough. I have road bikes and mountain bikes and just bought the fx3 last week for my college student. If you want better gear ratios and want to go really fast you don’t buy a 25 pound bike and you shouldn’t be on a hybrid bike, instead a traditional road bike imo.
Nice video, I have the 2020 Equipped model (included pannier rack, fenders (mud guards for the Brits reading this), front and back lights and rear stand. The lights were to the German StVZO spec that aren't very powerful so I swapped them out for some brighter ones from Cateye. Apart from the drive train I can't see a big difference other than colour from my bike. The non "equipped" 2020 model was red I think, mine is a rather boring matt black finish but the factory extras were worth the extra. I also swapped the saddle for a Brooks B17. I mainly use the bike for a commute to work through fairly flat unlit (hence the lights swap) country lanes near the coast in South Wales (UK).
Considering this bike or the Dual Sport 3. I’m coming from a 15 year old MTB Giant. I don’t really do heavy mountain biking anymore, as I am now usually riding with my 5 year old on pavement and the occasional fire road/light trail at state parks once a month. I’m thinking I could upgrade the tires on this if I startled doing more frequent gravel/trails. Anyone have any ideas or feedback on which route would be best? Any feedback is welcome, thanks!
Everybody keeps saying this bike is fast and quick and nimble but I find it to be average in speed, average in weight, and average in quick and nimble. i wouldn't call it "fast" since it's not even much faster than my mountain bike
I own one in matte dnister black color and medium frame size. Bought last March. Use it as my commuter bike to and from work. Absolutely love it! Gonna upgrade the tires to 38mm width once the stock tires worn-out. Probably go for a tubeless set-up as well.
How tall are you, and do you think the medium would work for someone who is 5’3, As a 14 year old, I want a bike that will last me for a while and allow me to commute daily up sone pretty big hills while also being able to have fun and go on long rides with it.
@@alexanderjames6274Hello, Alexander! My height is 5'7", medium frame fits riders who are 5'5" to 5'8" in height. Based on your mentioned height, small is the ideal frame size. I suggest that you visit local bike shop near you and have a bike fit, test ride both small and medium frame sizes to know what size fits you.
Are the 32mm tires uncomfortable? I'm thinking of getting this bike but the tires worry me. I ride on bad pavement often. I was thinking if this bike would accept 40mm tires or even 42mm, at least in front. Maybe 40mm at the back and 42mm in front. What do you think?
@@miguelkieling532 I replaced the stock 32mm with 35mm Continental Contact after using for good six months. Never had punctures with the old tires, just wanted a wider tire for added comfort and better grip on pavements. I use my bike for my daily commute to and from work. I feel more confident riding in wider tires. FX3 frame can only fit maximum of 38mm without fenders. Higher models like the FX Sport can run up to 40 mm with fenders and 42mm without fenders.
Hey it’s cool but my FX2 (‘022 QuickSilver) has been GREAT! The 2X is the “upgrade” for ‘022!!..and it’s just enough to give the Rider what’s needed to attack Hills & Various terrain! On the FX3, that Carbon Fork may be cool and efficient but damage it in ANY way, ..and you’ll feel the pain of repair, warranty and “go thru it” ..replacement blues! (TREK Support may annoy or vary some for sure..🙄good luck wit’ that huh) So, if you are “on the fence” about that Drive Train and real advantage..(weight vs damage ) ..I’d go with the Trek FX2 version! If you don’t care about $$$$,..and have your Heart set on the FX3,..then Go For It!! 🤨Gotta state here tho’ that the FX2 is Rugged, Fast , and Rides just as well if set up for Rider is right! b(‘_
I own 4 bikes. I own a old schwinn a mongoose a mountain bike and a large frame hybrid bike. I love to ride around NY town neighbor hood. I'm saving I'm going to buy a treck fx bike soon. I think treck bikes great
I test road it at a local bike shop because I was close to buying it from the specs and look then once I ride it it felt a bit heavier than it looked, and I ride mountain bikes (2021 giant talon 2)
I bought an FX 3 Disc and returned it the next day for a DS3. I couldn't decide either, but after more research and being honest with my needs, I went with the DS 3. If you're ever gonna go with anything above 38c tires, go with the DS. If you want the peace of mind of being able to throw the bike around a little more, go with the DS. The FX is a bit more quick and nimble, but less comfortable and versatile. If speed is your thing, go FX, but if you want to tackle more diverse terrain and go on more unplanned rides, go DS. Both are terrific bikes; it just depends on what your use is. Good luck!
My 2011 specialized sirrus weighs 21 pounds not stock.. But i aint got nothing to fancy..deore crankset. Xt shifters xt brakes rim brakes. Deore front derailleur xt rear derailleur. Mavic ksyrium 1700 gram set.. Rubino pro3 tires. Ive got over 25k miles on my sirrus havent rode a trek fx yet that feels as good.. Plus i hate disc frames haha
@@KaninManeepairoj Isn't the red only available on the FX 2? I would love the FX 3 in red but it seems to only be available in black and blue/dark blue.
I bought the fx3disk stagger in March of this year, in black. After hip pinning surgery I had to go with a bike that was easy to mount. This bike is awesome. Absolutely a blast to ride. I have over 800 miles already. The bike did great at the 25 miler hhh in Wichita falls TX. I do want to upgrade tires to a more of a flat protection.. the pedals are not good quality in my opinion. I looking for a silver pedal to match the Trek logo. If you have any recommendations on tires and pedals it would be appreciated.
@lancekarencanfield7845 sorry one more thing. How is the paint job. Some people suggest it chips easily. Also do you find it's enough gears and are the tires ok. Just want to make the right decision on gettong one. Thank you for any feedback 😊
Trek bike co. charges top dollar for bikes with entry level components. They are playing the consumer with named recognition & what they used to produce.
Specialized has wider tires, is slower, and a 20mm front damper spring but is on a lower quality drive train, the advent. Shimano deore on the trek is the way to go and better and more expensive components. Road bikes don’t use the advent is all you need to know. If you want a comfort bike go trek verve. Specialized is also more pricey for lesser components.
This bike is fast with a set of new bontrager Aeolus v carbon wheelset in a schwalbe G1 All around tires and a 105 group set:!!! that is proper ride to be haulin ass on !!
Are the 32mm tires uncomfortable? I'm thinking of getting this bike but the tires worry me. I ride on bad pavement often. I was thinking if this bike would accept 40mm tires or even 42mm, at least in front. Maybe 40mm at the back and 42mm in front. What do you think?
@@Jamesthebikeguy Haha yh i measured my fcr4 frame in 2% sections then deducted the areas that were different to the fx3 and got the precision 94% measurement. 😭😭😊
I have a 2010 FCR1, and I have it set up for light gravel/road riding. Funny how my older bike is better spec'd than this new one. Plus, I picked it up as basically new for $150.00!! Sure, I added some parts due to personal preferences, but who doesn't?
@@skooterbrah Yh i hear ya my fcr4 isn't far of the spec of this fx3 it has the same color way as well. I bought mine a few months ago in pristine condition for only £60 which is about $80 ish its shockingly light to attributed by the 28c tyres and slim frame and no heavy disc brakes no doubt.
3:12 The welding on that BB is a mess and not good enough considering the $1,049.99 price tag. There's lots to love about 1x drivetrains, but they are a poor choice if you have hills to climb. This drivetrain offers a lowest gear ratio of 0.91 (42T front / 46T rear) which would cause me to prefer my Trek FX2 (0.77) or my mountain bike (0.68).
Have had an FX3 for three years. Great bike. That said I picked up a Domane Al4 and wish I had just done that from the start. I'm more than 3mph faster on the same loops and its even more comfortable. If you have the cash, go Domane.
Are the 32mm tires uncomfortable? I'm thinking of getting this bike but the tires worry me. I ride on bad pavement often. I was thinking if this bike would accept 40mm tires or even 42mm, at least in front. Maybe 40mm at the back and 42mm in front. What do you think?
@@miguelkieling532 I don't think it's the tires - once there is no suspension forks, it's almost inevitable the shaking… if it matters to you it's an issue, for me I don't like any shakings, and I found this only after riding full carbon no suspension great bikes - I reached out the conclusion - I want the smoothest ride possible - I can ride much more if the ride is smooth even if I need to put much more effort - it just makes the ride much smoother and the comfort makes me ride much much longer - even for roads I don't want bumps, if the road is super smooth with no bumps that may be a different thing.
You have no idea. After a year peddling a 65lb electric bike. When I wanted some exercise. The FX3 feels like a feather. And I fly on it. I can get close to 30mph without even pushing too hard. With the 28mm gator skins I have on mine.
