New XC Platform: Prototype testing by Trek Factory Racing suggests a new XCO bike is in development, distinctly different from the current Supercaliber.
Trek Fuel Gen 7: This, likely to be called a 2026 model, is highly modular, allowing riders to switch between different, more aggressive configurations, with updated, increased stack heights for a modern, upright position.
I’d be shocked if an Epic 9 was coming that soon. Why would they have 2026 models with new colors if they were releasing a new bike in early 2026? That makes no sense.
Because the typical specialized customer will buy anything new that they release. I’m sure the marketing team is already on it…. 10g lighter, 5% stiffer yet 5% more compliant.
Unfortunately it’s not just Trek. WSJ article today discussed worst layoffs in January for US since 2009. I’m sure all of the pro-inflationary decisions made by the administration are impacting all industry segments including Trek.https://apple.news/AEsqEQUv0R4u8yQkc_o6VFQ
Payson had Riley on the podcast recently and they spent some time talking about some major change coming to hit the industry this year - presumably 32” wheels and maybe brands are much further along than we realize?
Wouldn’t be a bad idea… great bike and basically what the Epic 8 did. The question is what is going to make this bike stand out so people buy it? Small geometry tweaks won’t be enough. Is it lighter? Is it cheaper?
If Trek wants to get back in the game they need to do something to get people back from a business standpoint.
Trek on the downtube, I guess. I can’t think of a single reason people would “upgrade” to this bike from any other flex stay XC frame that’s been released in the last 4 years.
I’d be shocked. Looks like a standard 1900-2000g frame to me.
