🚴♂️ Trek FX+ 1S Review – In-Depth Analysis of the Ultimate Urban E-Bike
📚 Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Overview & Build Quality
- 🔧 Specifications & Components
- ⚙️ Motor & Performance
- 🔋 Battery Life & Charging
- 📏 Real-World Range Tests
- 🚦 Ride Quality, Comfort & Ergonomics
- 📱 Smart Features & Trek Central App
- 🛡️ Safety Features
- ✅ Pros & ❌ Cons
- 🔄 Comparison with Similar E-Bikes
- 🏁 Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Trek FX+ 1S?
Introduction
The e-bike market has seen a massive boom in the past decade, especially in the commuter segment. One of the standout models in this space is the Trek FX+ 1S. Designed for urban riders, commuters, and casual cyclists alike, the FX+ 1S combines utility, technology, and sleek design into one compelling package. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore every aspect of this e-bike—from its frame geometry and motor performance to real-world range and smart connectivity.
Overview & Build Quality
Trek’s FX series is known for lightweight, agile bikes aimed at city dwellers and fitness riders. The FX+ 1S adds electric assistance without sacrificing this DNA. It features a lightweight Alpha Gold aluminum frame that tips the scale at just under 50 lbs, even with a fully integrated 520Wh battery. The design is clean, minimal, and functionally refined. Internal cable routing, integrated lighting, and commuter-focused accessories like fender and rack mounts add to its polished look and practicality.
From a construction standpoint, the FX+ 1S is well-balanced, offering the durability needed for rough pavement and light off-road riding while retaining the aesthetics of a high-end urban hybrid bike.
🔧 Specifications & Components
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor | Hyena 500W rear-hub motor, 60 Nm torque |
| Battery | 520Wh internal, non-removable |
| Display | Color LCD with ride metrics and assist level control |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Altus 8-speed (11-45T cassette) |
| Brakes | Rush hydraulic disc brakes, 180mm rotors |
| Frame | Alpha Gold Aluminum |
| Tires | Bontrager GR0 Comp 650b x 50mm |
| Lights | Herrmans MR8 headlight & integrated taillight with turn signals |
| App Connectivity | Trek Central App (via Hyena platform) |
⚙️ Motor & Performance
The FX+ 1S features a 500W Hyena rear-hub motor that offers 60 Nm of torque, making acceleration smooth and responsive. Whether starting from a stop at an intersection or climbing a gentle incline, the bike maintains consistent power delivery. It’s a Class 3 e-bike with pedal assist up to 28 mph and throttle-only assist up to 20 mph.
During performance tests, the FX+ 1S reached 20 mph in just under 15 seconds on throttle and accelerated more rapidly under pedal assist. The motor engagement is silent and intuitive, never jerky or delayed.
🔋 Battery Life & Charging
Equipped with a 520Wh internal battery, the FX+ 1S supports medium- to long-distance commutes. The non-removable battery may be a downside for those without indoor charging access, but it allows for a more streamlined frame design.
Charging from 0–100% takes approximately 4 hours using the EasyMag magnetic charger. The battery integrates seamlessly with the Trek Central app for monitoring charge cycles, battery health, and range predictions.
📏 Real-World Range Tests
In range tests conducted by ElectricBikeReport.com, the FX+ 1S achieved:
- Low Assist: 51.9 miles at an average speed of ~14 mph
- High Assist: 33.4 miles at ~20 mph
These results place the FX+ 1S at the upper end of real-world commuter e-bike ranges, outperforming many bikes in the sub-$2,000 category. Terrain, rider weight, and assist level impact range, but the overall efficiency is noteworthy.
🚦 Ride Quality, Comfort & Ergonomics
The FX+ 1S’s ride quality is a standout feature. Thanks to wide 50mm tires, a rigid aluminum fork, and a neutral riding position, it offers stability and control even on less-than-perfect city roads. The frame geometry suits a wide variety of rider heights, and the low standover makes it approachable for newer cyclists.
The bike comes in multiple sizes and both step-over and step-thru configurations, ensuring comfort for riders between 5’1” and 6’6”.
📱 Smart Features & Trek Central App
The Trek Central app, powered by Hyena, enhances the FX+ 1S with features such as:
- Assist tuning: Customize power delivery and responsiveness
- Range cloud: Visual maps showing battery percentage and distance limits
- Ride stats: Track speed, distance, elevation, and efficiency
- Battery insights: View charge cycles, storage mode, and maintenance tips
While the app can occasionally struggle to pair on first attempt, it offers significant value and depth once connected.
🛡️ Safety Features
The FX+ 1S includes comprehensive safety features: bright front and rear lights, integrated turn signals, and brake-light functionality. Its 180mm hydraulic disc brakes perform exceptionally in urban stop-and-go traffic.
Stopping distance in tests was approximately 20 feet from full speed—better than average for e-bikes in its class.
✅ Pros & ❌ Cons
✅ Pros
- Powerful and smooth 500W motor
- Long real-world range (up to 52 miles)
- Lightweight frame under 50 lbs
- Excellent app integration for motor/battery data
- Throttle + pedal assist flexibility
- Integrated lighting and turn signals
- Hydraulic disc brakes for superior control
❌ Cons
- Battery is non-removable
- Plastic pedals may need upgrading
- Occasional app connection glitches
🔄 Comparison with Similar E-Bikes
RadCity 5 Plus: While offering similar power and features, Rad’s bike is heavier (~65 lbs) and lacks integrated turn signals. However, it has a removable battery and lower cost.
Specialized Turbo Vado SL: Lighter and sleeker than the FX+ 1S, but significantly more expensive with less torque (35 Nm). Better for fitness-oriented riders.
Aventon Level.2: Offers torque sensor and removable battery, but slightly heavier and bulkier in city settings.
The FX+ 1S stands out as the most refined, integrated choice in the ~$2,000 commuter segment with top-tier safety features.
🏁 Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Trek FX+ 1S?
The Trek FX+ 1S is an ideal choice for urban commuters, casual riders, and anyone looking to upgrade from a traditional bike to a reliable e-bike. Its clean aesthetic, performance motor, extended range, and advanced smart features make it a versatile all-rounder.
Recommended for:
- Commuters needing speed and range
- City riders who value safety and integrated lighting
- Fitness enthusiasts looking to ride further with assist
Not ideal for: Riders who require a removable battery or plan to ride extensive trails with extreme elevation changes.
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8/5)
If you’re in the market for a balanced, modern, and dependable commuter e-bike, the Trek FX+ 1S should be at the top of your list.
