Trek has once again made a mark in the electric bike segment with its revamped FX+ 2, now hailed as our top choice among the Best Electric Bikes. For newcomers to the cycling world, a price tag of $2,500 is quite reasonable for a dependable commuter bike that can easily be assembled and serviced by a capable individual.
I was thrilled to learn about the updates to the FX+ series; however, I found it surprising that Trek opted for the TQ HPR50 motor, which features a smooth pin ring drive—a more premium drivetrain system first introduced on their high-end mountain bikes. The new FX+ 7S is not only quieter but also packs a greater punch, albeit at a significantly higher price point. Nevertheless, having spent $5,000 on my own daily rider, I find $4,000 still to fall within a justifiable price range for a commuter bike. Plus, it’s certainly less hassle compared to obtaining a motorcycle license.
What’s Up
Just a few days back, I parked the FX+ 7 in front of my parents’ house. My father stepped outside and exclaimed, “What a stunning bike!” It truly is, much like its earlier model! I had the opportunity to test the small-sized frame, which was a perfect fit for my 5’2″ height. (It’s designed as a step-through, making it suitable for even shorter riders.) The frame is made of aluminum, and all cables are routed internally for a sleek appearance.
Photograph: Adrienne So
One of the notable improvements over the FX+ 2 is the integration of a TQ LED display into the down tube of the bike. It’s bright and easy to read, allowing you to scroll through various stats including battery life, estimated ride time remaining, and your current cardinal direction (which is very useful!).
If you prefer not to use the physical display, you can connect your bike with your smartphone using the Trek Central app (available for iOS and Android). The ergonomic handlebars feature a Quad Lock, enabling you to use your phone as a display. Although I didn’t purchase a Quad Lock case (in hindsight, I should have), I found the app to be very user-friendly. It includes various sections, with the first being your bike dashboard, followed by map and navigation, ride history, and settings that allow you to adjust all of these features.
Screenshots courtesy of Adrienne So