The 2021 Trek Powerfly FS 7 on test – Is this the all-round eMTB of tomorrow?

Trek have completely redesigned the Powerfly FS, overhauling the concept to target a much wider audience, from trekking and leisure riders, to moderate trail adventurers. We tested the 120/100 mm travel eMTB with the Bosch Performance Line CX motor to find out whether the new Trek Powerfly FS 7 is the all-rounder that many have been looking for.

There’s no doubt that if we won the lottery, we would own more than one bike: one for long rides, one for flowing single track, one for fast commutes… But since none of us have a goose that lays golden eggs, we have to think carefully about which bike to invest in. Trek aim to solve this problem with the new Powerfly FS 7. We put the American eMTB through its paces in the Alps of South Tyrol to find out what it’s capable of. Can the 120 mm front and 100 mm rear travel eMTB with 29″ wheels and its Bosch Performance Line CX motor be the one bike for (almost) everyone?

The Trek Powerfly FS 7 in detail

The Powerfly FS has a distinct look and the unique design with the shock positioned behind the seat tube, together with the low-slung top tube, immediately catch your eye. A fender protects the rear shock from being bombarded by dirt from the rear wheel. The 85 Nm Bosch Performance Line CX motor and the 625 Wh battery are neatly integrated into the frame while the battery is easy to remove from the side of the down tube, even featuring a convenient carrying handle. Mounted in front of the stem, the Bosch Kiox display is easy to read but its navigation function is rudimentary at best. Unfortunately, Trek don’t offer any builds featuring Bosch’s new Nyon display with its extensive navigation functions. It’s a shame, the Nyon would look great on the bike! However, a model with the Bosch SmartphoneHub is available.

The components of the Trek Powerfly FS 7

In general, the componentry is good, consisting of a Shimano SLX/XT drivetrain, Shimano SLX brakes, 120 mm TransX dropper post and RockShox SIDLuxe Select+ shock. However, the 120 mm travel RockShox 35 Gold RL fork could be better. It does a good job of absorbing large impacts but a more sensitive fork would significantly increase comfort and traction at the front. The tires, handlebars, stem and wheels are supplied in-house. For frame size XS and S, Trek rely on 27.5″ wheels whereas sizes M, L and X roll on 29″ wheels. This should allow for consistent handling across all frame sizes. The Powerfly 7 is available for a reasonable € 5,360 and is approved for a maximum permissible weight of 136 kg. If you want to use the Powerfly FS for commuting and running errands, Trek have made the bike compatible with all the accessories you might need, including mudguards, a stand, luggage racks and lights. Alternatively, the € 6,335 Trek Powerfly FS 9 comes equipped with all of this as standard, including the Bosch SmartphoneHub.

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The Geometry of the Trek Powerfly FS

Size	XS	S	M	L	XL
Seat tube	368 mm	395 mm	420 mm	450 mm	500 mm
Top tube	554 mm	564 mm	589 mm	621 mm	646 mm
Head tube	140 mm	140 mm	130 mm	140 mm	140 mm
Head angle	66.5°	66.5°	66.5°	66.5°	66.5°
Seat angle	68.3°	68.3°	67.5°	67.5°	67.5°
Chainstay	468 mm	468 mm	470 mm	470 mm	470 mm
BB height	332 mm	332 mm	335 mm	335 mm	335 mm
BB Drop	24 mm	24 mm	39 mm	39 mm	39 mm
Wheelbase	1,170 mm	1,180 mm	1,206 mm	1,240 mm	1,265 mm
Reach	405 mm	415 mm	430 mm	460 mm	485 mm
Stack	599 mm	599 mm	637 mm	646 mm	646 mm

Almost like you’re flying

How does such a versatile bike ride? The first thing you’ll notice when you climb aboard is the very low top tube and the freedom of movement that it provides. The riding position is compact and upright, which is great for long, leisurely rides and sightseeing. Your weight is evenly distributed between your hands and seat, contributing to the bikes overall comfort. An added bonus is the dropper seat post which makes getting on and off even easier.

With its predictable handling, wide handlebars, reliable brakes and high-volume tires, the bike instils you with confidence. The response of the RockShox 35 Gold fork is mediocre. A better fork could significantly increase comfort and, above all, traction. The rear suspension does a good job of managing its 100 mm travel as it doesn’t bottom out harshly and only releases as much travel as is absolutely necessary. The rider always stays informed about what’s happening on the trail beneath them without it being unpleasant. With an active riding style, the bike offers a lot of support and also responds to quick direction changes with immediate precision. The Trek Powerfly FS 7 is a nimble and intuitive ebike, allowing both beginners and experts to get their money’s worth. The Powerfly is a versatile eMTB that is equally suited to relaxed cruising, sightseeing and enjoying the outdoors as it is to more action-packed rides in moderate terrain. It’s an excellent companion for classic trekking riders who want to explore new terrain and aren’t afraid of tackling easy trails. Experienced riders will also get their money’s worth for demanding riding but you’ll have to know what you’re doing. The Powerfly FS 7 only reaches its limits on alpine trails and rough tracks.

Conclusionn

With its smart concept, the Trek Powerfly FS 7 is sure to meet the needs of many trekking riders. With its upright and comfortable riding position, efficient suspension and intuitive handling, it performs well on moderate off-road terrain as well as long gravel and forest path rides. If you’re looking for a trekking bike that rides like a sofa, this isn’t it, but if you’re looking for the trekking ebike of tomorrow, you’ll love the Powerfly.

More info at trekbikes.com

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Words: Susanne Feddersen Photos: Jonas Müssig