I have a FX 7.4 model which is probably equivalent to the new FX 3 model. I have it for 9 years now and it is the fastest bike and the lightest bike I’ve ever owned. It is still my go to bike.
I’ve had my fx 2 for almost 4 years and it’s my favorite bike. No need for padded shorts or incremental adjustments like on my road bike. Just get on and go. I won’t ever be fast on it but it’s more of like a Camry. Gets the job done ‘
I have an FX3 and it's the one I always grab of casual rides. It's the last model year they came with rim brakes.I love that bike! I'd tour on it. Bar ends are a great addition. I tour with Ariel panniers, and have no complaint except they need rain covers. Thet also make dry bag style panniers. Ortlieb panniers are another good choice. If you're touring, Areodynamics aren't really all that important, especially on a fully loaded tour. Panneirs make for a pretty wide load! Remember, a tour ain't a race! it's a chance to see the world at the speed of life!!
Ive been riding the FX2 as my grocery getter / errand runner for two years now. I really like that th fork can accommodate a front rack. Makes handling a bit sluggish, but super convenient for carrying those odds & ends from layers to library books to takeout meals.
If you plan to use a flatbar bike for touring I can highly recommend some inner barends for more hand positions! Something like the SQLabs Innerbarends, they mount between your grips and brake levers and give you a very similar position to the hoods of drop bars, which is also more ergonomic and aero compard to the normal grip. The best part is you have still acess to your brakes from this position. I switched from drop bars to flat bars with the innerbarends for touring and I am much happier. It's more comfortable, I am similar aero to drop bars but I still have the wide bars for off road use.
Nicely equipped bike for the money. Should be pretty rugged and reliable. Worth getting some feed bags if not already for the tour. Plenty of room on those wide bars. Take spare spokes for each wheel and a spoke key. Can zip tie them on to chainstay. Make sure the rack bolts are well done up and check them for tightness throughout the tour. Have a habit of rattling loose. And can damage the frame and not be an easy fix if goes too far. Take creams - chamy and for hands etc. Fit a saddle you are used to and bed in maybe? Tend to need wider saddles on more upright bikes though. Don't be too ambitious with miles. Allow time to stop and see things. Great to see you back making videos BTW. Look forward to the tour videos!
Clearly useful bike for your needs, although the styling is surprising austere, but this could be improved with a couple of stylish decals I find both fenders and kick stands incredibly useful to avoid getting your back splattered and to be able to support your bike, even when fully loaded. They have been invaluable over the years of rural touring and city commuting. Lovely to hear Thuong speaking in English, just let her talk by herself as much as possible without too much interference and oh boy, with her determination, she will surprise you by her progress !
I love my kickstands and pannier racks - the trick is to sling the heaviest pannier bag on the opposite side to the kickstand to improve balance. Sport and leisure cycling is amazing but when you have gear to carry a pannier rack, mudguards and a kickstand really do make sense - I've carried some crazy stuff by bike over the years, musical instruments, amplification, furniture, heavy shopping - the whole nine yards! Also I recommend Ortlieb backroller pannier bags - super tough, durable and guaranteed waterproof! 😀
If you're planning on using it as a tourer and errand bike with panniers, I'd suggest a double leg kickstand like the velo orange Copenhagen. They are more robust, imo.....for loaded down bikes. And maybe a steer-stop....and a strap for the brake lever to prevent rolling. I converted both a Trek Verve 1 and a Diamondback Lakeside from risers to dirt drops. I also like fenders for riding after a rain storm has ended. I generally don't ride while it's raining unless I'm already out riding.
@TwoWheelCruise you're welcome. I even set up a fixed gear with full coverage fenders and a front rack n basket. I'm kinda wanting to try the Evo Brooklyn bars, they're bars with a built in basket and two sets of clamp diameters. 25.4mm at the bottom, which kinda makes it a really high riser/BMX position then the 31.8mm section on the crossbar section of the bars, for a better lower center of gravity. I can only seem to find them online and I'd rather avoid it because I have had porch pirates before.
Nice that they include fenders and sturdy rear rack. Used to build and sell the line and it seemed like a solid series. I'd prefer the 1-piece solid crank of the FX3 and 10 spd cassette but like the double up front for closer variation of the gearing. Could never get used to the flat bars, need a flared drop minimum. Definitely a 'do it all' bike, easily adaptable for nearly everything. Looks like a variation of the solid Bontrager rear rack they used to/still have have on the 920. Advantage of a global name brand is warranty and service. I once had a rear drop out hanger bent beyond repair in Japan and there were none to be had in the whole country. (The bike had a limited release in Japan) The Trek rep got his higher ups into it and they were able to send me a derailleur hanger off of one of their display bikes in Trek Japan HQ. 😊🚲😊
I have a 2023 FX3 & I don’t really love it. I’ve heard that the new 2025 FX uses a dual-sport frame & 700x35 H2’s, both of which will make it a much more comfortable bike.
It’s interesting. It feels like hybrid bikes are seen as unappealing, but they do serve an important purpose, and maybe they will knock gravel bikes off their perch and become the cool bike to have. For me, I’d want a gear hub and either a chain case or a belt drive though. And also I think suspension seat posts and suspension stems would make a lot of sense. The channel Cyclingabout recently did a really good video on that topic.
I think a lot of more "serious" cyclists look down on them, but good hybrid bikes can be a way better option than many gravel bikes, especially for commuting or city riding. Belt Drive hybrid bike is still one of my dream bikes.
I purchased a 2by FX3 around 2021. I have used it extensively on road and off mostly smooth, some rough gravel. It's very robust and I've done so many miles. Per cost/reliability - it's a good commuter. I use it daily as I don't care if someone was to steel it. The big downside is it's heavy at just under 12KG, which you feel especiallty going up hill. It's fine up to an hour of riding, but anything over that you need something better. If I had my time again I would have gone for something like a Canyon Endurance or roadlite.
That's almost the same weight as my old racing XC MTB so the weight is not an issue, especially since we will be loading up some luggage as well. Hopefully it will be OK on the 5% climbs, but anything more may be difficult
Great purchase you think by now right!? The TREK FX2 is popular and a fine Hybrid/Fitness Bike! I have ridden my ‘022 QuickSilver FX2 since i got it new in ‘021 December in Tokyo, Japan…for Commuting & Exercise..with no issues! In fact I’m impressed with the Bontrager H2 Comp Tires in which i have not changed since i bought the bike and so far no flats or punctures although I’ve rode thru various terrain!! Size is a XL and once i set it up for my height,..it’s so comfortable to ride!…all day! The Drivetrain improved from ‘021 to a 2X from a 3X is nice,..little “Cross Chaining” now so less wear there on parts and managing gear change senecios are easier. Flat Bars are the “Bees Knees” for Hybrid riding & comfort but you must change the Grips due to they fail eventually to stay in position thus better to replace to taste. And if you do long rides,..i suggest some “horns” for those grueling hills and for just an alternative hand position to relieve fatigue..Well,..hope you folks enjoy your TREKFX2 as much as i do,..and I’m kinda glad that I didn’t get the FX3 version & the like because i just wasn’t down with the durability for the price‼️How could one trust that Carbon Fiber with confidence due to the Front Fork stress all on that tiny hole the axle goes thru withstand such abuse for long!? I mean,..one small crack starts after a severe bump hit and oh the damage to your bike, you & your wallet huh!? But the FX2 is strong!! I know from let’s say “experiences”🙄 Anyway,..have fun folks! v(‘_ ‘)/
I have that paneer/rack and theres a bag that clicks into the rack. The bag though is about the length of rack and has several pockets. i used it on my mtb for commuting to work and flat trails
I don't recognize the maker of that rack. Who is it? I've been liking the Ibera PakRak. I have their racks on several of my bikes and the basic clip in bag. Debating on grabbing more of their other clip in bags, like the one that has expandable side pockets and the insulated cooler bag. The one thing I found I dislike is that it's kinda hard to run the trunk bag with panniers, it just depends on what material the hooks are made from. I did find they make a touring style PakRak that has "separate" rails for the panniers. They will sit lower though.
I had a Trek hybrid a few years ago, I think it was FX 7.5. I rode it as a daily commuter, mostly in the street and on bike trails. Trek is a really good, moderately-priced brand.
Love it! Reminds me of my Specialized Crossroads hybrid bike-2019. Totally agree with everything you and your wife said about your FX2. Am sure you’ll enjoy it. Great setup with stock fenders and racks. Really like the mellow color! Specialized probably has more gears with a three chainring setup in the front and a bunch of them in the rear. I go everywhere with it and it keeps me fit enough. Glad to see you exploring this type of cycling experience. Am looking forward to hearing and seeing more of this content.
I have an FX2, 2021. i agree with your initial thoughts on those pedals, they are rubbish and slipeery when wet. I changed my straight away for some MTB style. Bike overall can take a lot of weight, myself 93kgs, and had 2 paniers with approx 13kgs in each bag without issue. Great all round bike.
I never owned a hybrid bike. I think it's a great idea for casual commuting. The extra storage is a bonus. About the DuoTrap feature on the chainstay, my bike has it too. It's for transmitting cadence and speed to your bike computer. You have to purchase the sensor for it to work.
I'm a Trek fan and currently have three. All three are carbon fiber. Two are around 30 years old and one is sixteen years old. All are great rides. Last visit to my local Trek store I saw and was impressed with Trek's FX line of hybrids. Particularly like the FX2 with mechanical discs Good choice.
You are correct. The FX2 we were looking at was one of last years models and was a darker red than the current viper red and grey models. Sorry!@@TwoWheelCruise
I’m about to buy a new bike and I’m focused on a Trek. Verve, FX and DS2 are the three. I need to ask my Trek dealer if he has an Fx. I’m just looking for an easy going bike for rail trails gravel roads and some commute and errands.
I have a 2021 FX 3 Disc, and I had the LBJ remove the kickstand before I even left the shop. Unnecessary, IMO. I later removed the reflectors and dork disc myself. Unnecessary, superfluous crap as far as I'm concerned. I have lights to make myself more visible. Anyway, the bike has been very solid for me and I've ridden it a lot. That's a nice bike you have there! I dig the color.
As I’m sure you know. There’s a good chance you can tighten up that kick stand so it doesn’t rattle. I had to install an aftermarket one and it’s fine when carrying groceries. Never did any bike touring per se with heavy loads but my guess is that you may need a dual or double kickstand setup. There are also “max click stands” that attach to the top tube or seat tube that are specifically designed for bike packers and bike tourists sure to handle the heavier loads. Not an expert but having the right kickstand likely would be very helpful even though it’ll add a bit more weight.
I got the preveous version of FX 2 commuter bike I think the only diference is a spring supension on the front wheel ( wich is great in my bumpy road city). This bike is awesome and it checks all the boxs that Treks usually do. It is a reliable, resistent and fast bycicle. Those disc brakes can make a hell of a diference specially if you will commute during rain. My recomendation is to put tire linners because in my experience I had quiet a few issues with glass on the road without those on. I wish i could send you a pic mine because it looks so similar to yours, I have the same black plastic full fenders and a very similar rack.
Bike sizes is very important most of the time Bikers choosing looks best for them despite the wrong size of the frame. Indeed Legs & Torso mesures are never simetrical. So is very important consideration between looks & size :) Great Rides to the Bicyclists:)
I like Trek bike but not the service from the dealer in my country. New bike delivered without proper tuning. It is no fun with the gear cannot change and the adjustment sticker were not took off and indicating that it was not properly setup. When bring back to the dealer, there are full of excuses instead of admitting the mistake. After the tuning, it is also no fun when the chain fall off. Do bear in mind Trek is not cheap and is not acceptable if the service is bad. Do consider the service from the brand before buying. My biggest mistake was not reading the Google map review of the dealer before buying. This is my personal experience. If interested to find out more, google map review in Singapore for them.(Btw i didn't put any review there)
I bought a f2+ at the dealer in Montreal the front wheel was off center and the bike steering right. The technician said no that's find so I asked to see the manager. They tried to fix it and now much better with still a little pull to the right.
I bought this bike 3 months ago and I absolutely love it. Btw so jealous that you live in Vietnam, I'm retired and feel like my Pension would go further there. Thank you for the video.
Nice video! Welcome to the Trek FX2 fam! Nice to see biking in Vietnam! Sounds like Trek is popular in Vietnam? Cool that you got the FX2 package with fenders, kickstand and rack.
choosing between the fx2 and the specialized sirrus at the moment but you sir might have made my mind up.great review and you and your wife are a cute couple
I think that I would change out the grips to bull horn grips. On a long ride it’s nice to have options to adjust your grip. Also with a heavy load it’s nice to be able to really kick into gear with them
I don't like clamps on racks. Its a lazy design that introduces a potential failing point. They should instead have properly sized rods that are bolted in on both sides to secure the rack securely to the bike. Other than that it looks a nice bike that should serve you well. Looking forward to your tour.
Did trek do the old part swap trick on you?. Mine came with Rush brakes and they also provided a uncomfortable seat of different brand. Ended up upgrading pedals and brakes to Shimano gear and the seat to a WTB Comfort Seat (amazing comfort). Enjoy the new bike, the fx2 is awesome once fully sorted.
Nice bike. As far as bags go, pretty much everyone I know recommends Ortlieb. I have a set and they are excellent. Not sure if you can get them where you are though.
Just as a side thought you might want to consider that Hybrids bikes such as this are more accurately a cross (fall between) between Road and Cruiser type bikes. In fact cruiser bikes were commuter type rides back in the day. We all say Road and Mountain only because cruisers were for so long out of favor and forgotten about in the eye of the general public, but use to be the staple bicycle back in the 30s,40s, 50s, 60's and 70,s, However they fell from favor due to the increase in tech and gearing vs single speed and 3 speeds of the now commuter bike.... But they have always been around just not a popular. Guess what the original mtb's bikes were???
I have a Giant Escape 1 Disc which is much like this one. It's my everyday commuting bike and I would not replace it with anything else. I LOVE IT! This Trek one looks pretty darn close. It even has tubeless ready tires, but I run tubes. I have 700cx38c tires and it's damn comfy compared to my regular road bike. I actually had to put fenders and a back rack on mine as well separately. Mine also has the hydraulic brakes. Damn good price with all included there! My Escape 1 Disc ran me about $600 US. It was a damn good deal. My specs are near identical to yours on that trek. TBH though... I have Altus on mine and it's just OK. Made me miss Tiagra that I had on my old road bike and 105 that I have on my current road bike. I know Altus is very much a different category of groupset, but I found the shifting not very precise. I had to tune it a bit and couldn't nail it and took it to the local Decathlon and paid for their top service after a year of riding back and forth to work daily and they took it all apart and recalibrated the derailleur and they couldn't even get it quite right. Therefore, I know it's not their issue and has got to do with the parts themselves.. They just don't shift that great--at least for me. That being said, when mostly using the front derailleur to shift back and forth from low to high, the issue becomes irrelevant--this is because I commute on mostly flat roads and could probably even get away with a fixed gear bike. I just like having more range. Mine is also a 9x2 so like 18 gears and I usually always ride in 7th from a stop to get going and then shift to 14th via front derailleur and that gives me tons of speed for keeping up with traffic. In 7th, I get up to between 15~18km/h in seconds and then with one press/shift on the shifter, I'm at 28~36km/h in another few seconds. About as fast as you want/need to go in city traffic. Anyway, rant over. I just want to share my commuting experience with this gear. It's not perfect, but it's a bargain, works well enough and if your not always moving up and down your rear cassette in the high/lower part of it, this will work a treat for getting around. It's not near as tight as road groupsets, but it's not a race when you're going to work (unless your late..lol). 35c tires would be quicker for sure, but with bumpier roads, you may want to change out to 38c at lower pressures.
Seat was a half inch too high, IMO. Their sizes are weirdly spaced, that Large is really a medium. I hope you tightened every bolt and all the spokes and loosened/ greased any cone bearings. The spokes might be OK in Vietnam, otherwise they should be 2.3/ 2.0 on the drive side. Every time I see tour videos, the deFaileur DS spokes are popping all over. Those tires won't last a hill of beans. LOL. If there's space inside, make the rack bolt go thru and put a nylock nut on as well, 10x stronger with a M6 too. I really like my Vsixty pedals with pins that don't back out. I saw a video of Dalat. I see nothing special, just a way overbuilt suburb on a mountain. That highway is a 4 lane freeway now. Better is staying on the coast all the way to Vung Tau. IMO. But it's too hot of course. LOL. The way to Hue and Dong Hoi is real nice too. She won't like that flodder after a long trip. LOL. There's a YT channel of a clumsy dutch guy doing a world trip on a CUBE bike. Pedal bearings dried up and seized, that ruined the crank, then his thru axle flange broke off 5 spokes, replaced with a 20H race wheel in India, LOL, then a hotel worker broke his hanger off. Also a taxi broke his part time ride mate's Dahon bike frame in half at the head tube. It patched up nice. LOL.
Thanks for all of your suggestions! We have heard mixed things about Da Lat, but we want to at least see it and experience the "cooler climate" in Vietnam. I also don't think these tires will last very long 😂
@@TwoWheelCruise I had a better look at those tires. I think I was too harsh. LOL About $32 and they're a name brand. Their $72 tire looks as tough as a Schwalbe marathon plus that I've used. I have the E-Plus 35 mm tires waiting to be installed. Should have got 38 mm probably. Get her bike a big bar bag and something on her seat post at least. I stayed at the Lang Co Resort half way to Hue in Dec. 18, 2014, big rooms and beach there. It was cool and I was about the only guy there. LOL. There's another climb before Hue, another reason to stop here.
@@GordoGambler I think we will keep the tires until they wear out and bring some spares just in case. For Hue, we were thinking to just ride there in 1 day since it's only about 100km, but that's good to know there is a good option by Lang Co in case we need it.
I thought about Shang hai d for a moment but now know it’s a sharing action to the brand new trek .like the idea of a tour like the bike .i would have commented sooner but do so now my question is it going to the East and what’s the name of the brand new trek ?
I have this bike and worst bike I have ever had. Heavy and slow,. The rolling is terrible you need to pedal constantly, it's too heavy or slow to cruise on. Back wheel spokes broke every few weeks. Disc brakes would lose grip every few months. I went from riding daily on a 1980's steel frame to riding maybe monthly, this is how much I didn't enjoy riding this. Wouldn't recommend this as daily ride.
