I am not a Trek loyalist, but I have a gift card and would like to utilize it for my first e-bike. Have ridden a Verve+ before and although I appreciated the upright posture, the bike felt unwieldy and a bit too upright (power was nice though).
Went to my LBS and thought the FX+ 2 (2026 model in the bronze color) and Marlin+ 8 2nd gen might be good options. FX+ 2 has 60Nm and is a hub motor where the Marlin has 75Nm with a mid drive. Comparable battery sizes, but from what I’ve read the mid drive will be more efficient and use less battery…is this right?
This bike will only be used for casual, leisure riding on a mix of flat and hilly pavement, gravel, and singletrack dirt trails. No commuting, but I’d like it to be around 55 lbs or less because I will likely take it with me on public transportation from time to time. I also have a bike rack so I can get out of the city and take it on easier off road adventures.
Just having a difficult time trying to figure out the best option for me. I did take them both for a test ride, but it was a couple loops around the store and not indicative of real life usage. Looking to buy soon and hope I can get some help here. TIA!
Went to my LBS and thought the FX+ 2 (2026 model in the bronze color) and Marlin+ 8 2nd gen might be good options. FX+ 2 has 60Nm and is a hub motor where the Marlin has 75Nm with a mid drive. Comparable battery sizes, but from what I’ve read the mid drive will be more efficient and use less battery…is this right?
This bike will only be used for casual, leisure riding on a mix of flat and hilly pavement, gravel, and singletrack dirt trails. No commuting, but I’d like it to be around 55 lbs or less because I will likely take it with me on public transportation from time to time. I also have a bike rack so I can get out of the city and take it on easier off road adventures.
Just having a difficult time trying to figure out the best option for me. I did take them both for a test ride, but it was a couple loops around the store and not indicative of real life usage. Looking to buy soon and hope I can get some help here. TIA!
