First Look | The Trek Powerfly+ FS 2016
At Trek World last weekend in Ulm, Germany we had opportunity to check out the new delights on offer for 2016 from Trek. One of the highlights included the Powerfly+ FS, which has a revised spec but unchanged geometry.
The Powerfly+ FS was first launched last year and Trek have since spent time refining, tweaking and honing the bike for the coming season. The only change to the tried and tested frame and geometry is the colourway. The rear offers 120mm travel from its proven EVO Link and specially configured RockShox Monarch damper. Trek’s own patented Active Braking Pivot technology has remained unchanged, preventing the suspension from hardening up when braking and therefore boosting confidence and control – naturally, hugely valued when it comes to heavier E-bikes.
While much remains the same as its elder sibling, there are certain significant changes afoot. The top of the range model has become privy to the RockShox PIKE forks; an upgrade we’re particularly pleased to see –after all, last year’s model was criticized for that former feature. Both the top of the range and the Powerfly+ FS 7 are kitted out with the new Bosch Performance Line CX motor, while the more affordable Powerfly+ FS 5 comes with the Bosch Performance Line motor.
The Powerfly+ FS 9
- Fork: Rock Shox Pike RC3
- Shock: Rock Shox Monarch
- Drivetrain: SRAM X1 11-fach
- Brakes: Shimano XT
- Motor: Bosch Performance CX
- Seatpost: Rock Shox Reverb
The Powerfly+ FS 7
- Fork: Rock Shox Revelation RL
- Shock: Rock Shox Monarch
- Drivetrain: Shimano XT 11-fach
- Brakes: Shimano Deore
- Motor: Bosch Performance Cruise
- Seatpost: Bontrager SSR
The Powerfly+ FS 5
- Fork: SR Suntour XCT
- Shock: Rock Shox Monarch
- Drivetrain: Shimano Alivio 10-fach
- Brakes: Shimano M335
- Motor: Bosch Performance Cruise
- Seatpost: Bontrager SSR
As yet we’re not in a position to share our first ride impressions, but due to the minor nature of the changes we’ve noted, we can point you in the direction of our extensive test of the Powerfly+ FS 9 2015.
Coming in five different sizes, the Powerfly+ FS will retail between 3,699 € and 5,299 € depending on the build spec. The exact specifications of each model can be found here, and the Trek Powerfly+ FS is already available in all its guises to pre-order from dealers.
More information can be found at trekbikes.com
Words: Daniel Schlicke Photos: Klaus Kneist
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