Trek’s new FX+1 is its first electric bike to have a throttle, providing a boost to your ride via pedal assistance or the handlebar-mounted thumb lever.
The electric hybrid bike is a motorised version of Trek’s FX, and is said to be “equally capable on- or off-road” with wide 2in tyres, an eight-speed Shimano Essa drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes.
The FX+1 is only available in the USA and Canada. It retails for $1,999.99 / CA$2,849 and is aimed at cyclists looking for a versatile and affordable bike that can be used for errands as well as more adventurous rides.
An extra boost
The FX+1 features a 500W Hyena rear-hub motor that provides 60Nm of torque and has a 520Wh battery in the down tube.
An LED display shows ride data and battery level, and can be used to flick through a range of assistance levels.
Trek says the bike has a range of up to 50 miles (80km), depending on the assistance level and how much you use the throttle.
Why add a throttle?
Trek has added a throttle to the FX+1 due to consumer demand and the popularity of similar bikes in the North American market, according to Taylor Cook, marketing manager for Trek Canada.
Cook told Canadian MTB: “There are a lot of bikes out there calling themselves ebikes that aren’t really made to be pedalled. This isn’t that. It’s still a Trek bike, built to be ridden, just with an extra bit of help when you need it.”
The FX+1 is available in two models to comply with electric bike laws where you live:
- The FX+1S is a class 2 and 3 model, which will throttle up to 20mph with pedal assistance up to 28mph.
- The FX+1 class 2 model is legal in California and will provide throttle or pedal assistance up to 20mph.
A ‘blank canvas’
Trek says the FX+1 is a “blank canvas”, which you can accessorise to your needs.
In other words, the electric bike has mounts to add a rear rack or fenders, which are wise additions for commuting by bike.
The bike is also available in two frame styles, with a mid-step or step-over top tube.
Elsewhere, it has in-built front and rear lights, with indicators you can control from the handlebar.
Trek says the bike lights will continue to function for up to three hours even after the battery reaches 0 per cent.
Magnetic charging
The FX+1 uses Trek’s new EasyMag charger, which clips onto the bike and will fully charge it in 5.5 hours.
The device can mount on a wall and attach to the bike at any angle.
