trek powerfly fs 4 2020 test

2023 Trek Powerfly FS 4 Review

Are you planning to buy an electric mountain bike? Do you have plans to hit the trails and mountains with a reliable power-assisted model?

The Trek Powerfly FS 4 is one of the most popular electric bikes on the market. With its motorized assistance, mid-drive design, and trail-ready components, it could be the perfect bike for your next ride.

Since its launch, Trek’s Powerfly FS 4 has become a fan favorite among mountain bikers. Its blend of power and agility make it an ideal choice for cyclists looking for serious performance on their rides.

The Powerfly FS 4 is designed to offer unparalleled experiences both off-road and on urban streets.

In this review, we look at the features that make this e-bike one of the best in its class and also elaborate on what it brings to the table in terms of value for money.

2023, Trek’s model year for all mountain e-bikes is here and the Powerfly FS 4 is their latest offering.

It’s a bike that caters to riders looking for a full suspension electric mountain bike with enough torque to take on anything you throw at it.

The Powerfly FS 4 also has several features that are sure to appeal to more serious cyclists, such as an optimized magnesium rocker link, adjustable assist levels, rack and fender mounts, and much more.

This review will go over the features of the 2023 Trek Powerfly FS 4 and provide an overview of its performance.

Take your off-road adventures to the next level with the 2023 Trek Powerfly FS 4, a performance mountain bike equipped with the latest technology to optimize your trails.

Featuring a Shimano 10-speed drivetrain and one of a kind eMTB motor system, this electric bike allows you to push beyond your typical limits and explore places that would normally be inaccessible.

With an upgraded suspension system, increased range, and safety features such as room for integrated lights and an updated dropper post design, you will experience no limit rides.

– Shimano Deore 1×10 speed drivetrain shifts quickly and smoothly.

– Motor system provides automatic support during off-road ascents.

– 120mm SR Suntour XCR 34, air spring suspension front fork improves agility on trails.

– TranzX dropper post design for quick seat adjustment on the fly.

– Increased range for longer riding distances than ever before.

– High volume Bontrager XR3 Comp tires provide great grip even in tough terrain conditions.

– Bosch PowerTube 500Wh battery powers the entire drive train without weighing down ride.

Motor & Battery

The 2023 Trek Powerfly FS 4 comes equipped with a Bosch Performance CX electric motor that provides up to 85 Nm of torque.

You can expect roughly 40 miles (64 km) on the 500Wh battery.

Frame & Suspension

At its core, the 2023 Trek Powerfly FS 4 is built with an oversized aluminum frame that offers 100mm travel at both ends in either 27.5 or 29er wheel sizes.

To ensure your ride stays smooth no matter what terrain you encounter, you can run up to a 120mm front fork.

If you want crisp shifting performance even in steep sections then this bike has you covered thanks to its 1×11 drivetrain consisting of Shimano Deore level components.

The cassette offers a 11-46t and its paired to a 36t chainring up front mounted to a FSA Bosch crankset.

Other features include powerful Tektro hydraulic disc brakes for assurance when descending rough trails as well as custom Bontrager Alex MD35, tubeless compatible wheels that have been designed especially for e-MTB use.

It also comes with a remote fork lockout so you can instantly stiffen your front end when climbing those stubborn hills.

Final Verdict

All things considered, if you’re looking for an all mountain electric mountain bike then the 2023 Trek Powerfly FS 4 should definitely be one of your top choices due to its versatile components and great price point made possible through countless hours of engineering from Trek’s research team.

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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• Powerfly FS 4 Gen 2

"Powerfly FS wins Best in Test"

"Powerfly FS blends sporty handling, efficient propulsion and long-distance comfort into a harmonious overall concept. The result: pure riding fun! "

E-MTB Category Winner

"The jury was enthralled by the upright and comfortable riding position on long tours while the bike also shines on moderate terrain thanks to its fun ride and intuitive handling."

Get rewarded for going electric

Electric bike rebate programs are popping up all over the country, meaning you could save big when you buy a Trek e-bike! See if you're eligible for a rebate near you.

How to responsibly recycle your e-bike battery

How to ride on mountain bike trails.

Guidelines and tips for protecting and sharing the trails you ride.

5 things to do before every mountain bike ride

Do this quick pre-ride safety check before you hit the trails.

How do Bontrager WaveCel helmets work?

Learn more about a major advancement in the protection against cycling-related head injuries.

Product features

Bosch performance line cx motor.

Bosch Performance Line CX sets the standard for eMTB performance with up to 85Nm of torque and an intelligent eMTB mode with Extended Boost that automatically adjusts the amount of assist based on the terrain.

Custom eMTB Lite mode

Trek eMTBs feature a custom eMTB Lite mode in place of Tour mode. It gives you more natural-feeling power delivery and longer battery life.

Removable Integrated Battery

RIB is a one-piece battery and cover with a built-in handle that can easily be removed and re-installed in the frame with no tools and no hassle. It’s the most convenient way to remove your battery for transport, security, or just easier charging.

What is the range?

To see how far you can ride your electric mountain bike on a single charge, check out Bosch’s range calculator. We’ve auto-filled the variables for this bike model and the average rider, but you can make adjustments to get your most accurate estimate.

Compliant with leading safety regulations

The e-systems on Trek and Electra e-bikes are third-party tested to meet the latest e-bike safety regulations, including the stringent UL 2849 certification — so all you have to worry about is where your e-bike will take you next.

Suspension Calculator

This suspension calculator will help you optimize your suspension settings for your riding weight. Simply follow the steps to find your best set up.

Bosch Purion Display

Bosch's Purion display features a fully-functional speedometer with a backlit display, service interval indicator, and battery range indicator. Its thoughtful design allows riders to scroll through functions or choose the right level of support while maintaining contact with handlebars.

Smart Wheel Size

The right wheel size paired with your frame size gives you the perfect combination of responsiveness and control.

Dropper post

Use the remote lever to lower your saddle so it's out of your way when you're descending and cornering.

Integrated speed sensor

You've got one less detail to sweat with the integrated speed sensor. The chainstay-mounted sensor stays protected while the custom hub-mounted magnet stays secure—no more error codes from mis-aligned sensors.

Lighting ready

The bike is already internally wired to accept additional lights. Go to your dealer and simply have them attached to the bike and plug them in.

How tall are you?

To measure your height, stand straight up, barefoot, with your back, heels, shoulders and head all touching a wall. While looking straight ahead, place a book or straight edge on your head and slowly push it against the wall. Your straight edge should be parallel with the floor. Mark the spot where the bottom of the book is touching the wall. The distance from the marked spot to the floor is your height.

What is your inseam?

How to measure: Stand barefoot with your back straight and against a wall. Tuck a ruler or something that extends to the floor between your legs. Using both hands, and keeping it level, pull the ruler up into your crotch as if you were sitting on the saddle. Measure the distance from the top edge of the ruler to the ground to find your inseam measurement. Your inseam is very important to your final bike size so please measure carefully.

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Trek Powerfly FS4 EQ: From a short-stroke E-MTB to a sporty SUV

7 January 2024 by Michael Faiss

E-SUV / Test: With the Trek Powerfly FS4 EQ, Trek offers an attractively priced E-SUV bike with a sporty character and a beautiful, versatile aluminum frame. The built-in Bosch drive also contributes to the strong overall impression, although a few compromises cannot be avoided given the price.

The Powerfly is actually not a “real” E-SUV, but it is a real mountain bike. Equipped with medium travel - 120 mm at the front, 100 mm at the rear - it could best be described as a touring fully for those who don't necessarily want to ride extreme trails. Above all, such an electric fully is ideal as a basis for an electric SUV, because the suspension travel can be shorter there. On the other hand, you're happy to take the powerful drive of an E-MTB with you on your everyday fully equipped bike - here Trek relies on the proven Bosch Performance CX, which with 85 Nm of torque and high peak power can be ridden in a relaxed manner even on the mountain and with little effort. The battery has a capacity of 625 watt hours and can be removed from the frame to the right. The Bosch Smart System also includes the practical LED remote on the handlebar grip and the compact, easy-to-read Kiox 300 display. Moderate suspension travel and trapezoidal frame. What is interesting is that the frame almost looks like a “trapezoidal” because the top tube slopes sharply. This fits perfectly with the unisex trend in frame shapes; On the E-MTB, this design also improves freedom of movement on the bike.

The relatively low price of the Trek E-SUV bike is noticeable when it comes to equipment. The broadly graduated Shimano Deore gears “only” come with ten gears, but still offer a more than sufficient range. The brakes and chassis are rather functional, but in our opinion quite appropriate for an e-bike in this class; After all, you probably won't be tackling any demanding enduro trails with the Powerfly EQ. On the other hand, it's nice that the Americans didn't save money elsewhere and gave the versatile bike a seat post that can be retracted from the handlebars, even in the cheapest equipment version. The short mudguards are stylish but not always practical; Especially on the front wheel, when the road is wet, this means that your feet don't always stay completely dry.

The Trek Powerfly FS4 EQ

When it comes to driving characteristics, the Trek Powerfly EQ scores points with its high level of comfort and the usual impressive Bosch CX motor. Whether the rather small battery is a disadvantage depends on the application - some people may even be happy about the weight saving of almost one kilogram compared to the 750 Wh version. The bike's sporty roots are definitely noticeable in the seating position, but without pushing themselves into the foreground. Nevertheless, the Powerfly EQ is more of a comfortable e-MTB than a sporty trekking bike.

Conclusion: Trek Powerfly FS4 EQ

• High comfort

• Very short mudguards
• Rather small battery

About Michael Faiss

Michael Faiß studied English and history in Munich. After spending a year in England, he worked as a translator for the magazine Procycling and the Degen Mediahouse, among others. He has also been a passionate cyclist and mechanic since childhood and feels at home off the beaten track in particular.

New Trek Powerfly FS 2021 – introducing Trek’s brand new tour-oriented allrounder with the new Bosch Performance CX motor

Trek have just released their Powerfly FS, a brand-new bike aimed at eBikers with a penchant for touring. With a 4th-generation Bosch Performance Line CX motor and 120/100 mm travel (f/r), the Powerfly FS was designed to suit a wide range of applications, from daily commutes to epic trail adventurers.

The Trek Powerfly has been an integral part of Trek’s eBike portfolio for several years now. The LT version (Long Travel) was replaced last year with the new Trek Rail , which already came with a 4th generation Bosch Performance Line CX motor. Tour-oriented eBikers, however, had to make due with the outdated FS version, which had 130 mm of travel and, unfortunately, still the old Bosch motor. With the new Powerfly FS 202, Trek are addressing the touring segment more specifically, while maintaining the Rail model as part of their trail-bike segment. The new Trek Powerfly FS 2021 starts at € 3,898 and is now available from your trusted Trek dealer.

New motor in a new frame

Hardcore Trek fans have a reason to celebrate. Finally, the Powerfly FS, which still had an old Bosch motor last year, is available with the latest 4th generation Performance CX drive. To make it compatible with the new motor, Trek redesigned the frame platform of the Powerfly FS 2021 from scratch. The engineers moved the shock behind the seat tube and adjusted the travel of the whole bike, with 120 mm at the front and 100 mm out back. The fully integrated 625Wh battery slides out of the frame sideways, without the need of tools. As its predecessor, the battery can be charged both on and off the bike and features a very clever carrying handle on the top of the housing.

From trail adventurers to everyday commuters – all spec options in detail

As mentioned before, the Powerfly FS 2021 was designed to be the true all-rounder in Trek’s eBike portfolio, which explains the five different spec options. Alongside three traditional, trail-compatible models, there are two more models, which go under the name of ‘Equipped’ and were designed to suit the needs of tourers and commuters alike. They come with a front and rear mudguard, a powerful lighting system, a kickstand and a pannier rack as standard. While the Trek Powerfly FS 4 features a Bosch Purion on-board computer, all high-spec models come with a Bosch-Kiox display or Bosch SmartphoneHub. As you’d expect from Trek, all models are available in a wide range of colours.

Trek Powerfly FS 4 500W/625W

The Trek Powerfly FS can be purchased either with a 500 Wh or slightly bigger 625 Wh Bosch PowerTube battery. The larger version can be retrofitted. The Trek Powerfly FS 4 625W will be available for € 4,190.

Specifications

Motor Bosch Performance Line CX 85 Nm Battery Bosch PowerTube 500/625 Wh Display Bosch Purion Fork SR Suntour XCR 34 120 mm Rear Shock SR Suntour Edge R 100 mm Seatpost TranzX Dropper Brakes Tektro HD-M275 180/180 mm Drivetrain Shimano Deore 1x10 Stem Bontrager alloy Handlebar Bontrager alloy Wheelset Bontrager MD35 27.5" – 29" Tires Bontrager XR3 Comp 2.3" – 2.4"

Technical Data

Size XS, S, M, L, XL Kickstand mount yes

Specific Features

Mini-fender

Trek Powerfly FS 7

Motor Bosch Performance Line CX 85 Nm Battery Bosch PowerTube 625 Wh Display Bosch Kiox Fork RockShox 35 Gold RL 120 mm Rear Shock RockShox SIDLuxe Select+ 100 mm Seatpost TranzX Dropper Brakes Shimano M6120 180/180 mm Drivetrain Shimano SLX/ XT 1x12 Stem Bontrager alloy Handlebar Bontrager alloy Wheelset Bontrager Line Comp 30 27.5" – 29" Tires Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 2.4"

Trek Powerfly FS 4 Equipped

On the Equipped version, the rear mini-fender of the trail version is replaced by a full-size mudguard on both wheels. The Trek Powerfly FS Equipped also features a powerful lighting system, a pannier rack and kickstand. The pannier rack is compatible with most conventional pannier bags. Commuters and touring cyclists will particularly like the Equipped models.

Motor Bosch Performance Line CX 85 Nm Battery Bosch PowerTube 625 Wh Display Bosch Kiox Fork SR Suntour XCR 34 120 mm Rear Shock SR Suntour Edge R 100 mm Seatpost TranzX Dropper Brakes Tektro HD-M275 180/180 mm Drivetrain Shimano Deore 1x10 Stem Bontrager alloy Handlebar Bontrager alloy Wheelset Bontrager Kovee 27.5" – 29" Tires Bontrager LT4 Expert 2.4"

Trek custom fender Trek custom MIK rack Herrmans MR8e/ Supernova E3 lights Pletscher Comp Flex 18 kickstand

Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped

Motor Bosch Performance Line CX 85 Nm Battery Bosch PowerTube 625 Wh Display Bosch SmartphoneHub Fork SR Suntour Zeron 35 120 mm Rear Shock RockShox SIDLuxe Select+ 100 mm Seatpost Bontrager Line Dropper Brakes Shimano XT M8120 180/180 mm Drivetrain Shimano XT 1x12 Stem Bontrager alloy Handlebar Bontrager alloy Wheelset Bontrager Line Comp 30 27.5" – 29" Tires Bontrager LT4 Expert 2.4"

Trek custom fender Trek custom MIK rack Supernova Mini 2/ E3 Mini-2 lights Pletscher Comp Flex 18 kickstand

The geometry in detail

To cover the widest possible range of applications, Trek release the Powerfly FS in 5 different spec options and just as many frame sizes – XS to XL. While the smaller XS and S sizes come with 27.5″ wheels , all other sizes feature 29″ wheels. A quick glance at the geo tab suggests an upright and thus comfortable riding position, which offers the ideal conditions for long rides – the high front-end and the slack seat angle are mainly responsible for this.

Trek Powerfly FS – first impressions

At last, the people at Trek rolled up their sleeves and gifted us with a brand-new version of the Powerfly FS with the latest Bosch Performance Line CX motor, which was long overdue! It took a long time, but the wait was worth it, especially for ambitious tourers and everyday commuters. We are looking forward to testing the Trek Powerfly FS and let you know if the outdated Powerfly has found a worthy successor.

More information at: trekbikes.com

Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more .

Words: Rudolf Fischer Photos: Trek

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• Rider Notes

2022 Trek Powerfly 4

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame hardtail trail e-bike with upper mid-range components.

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A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

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Sep 2022 · Mike Hunger

We have tested the Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped with Bosch Performance Line CX motor and 625 Wh battery for you.

Wide range of applications

Sporty and stylish look

Intuitive handling

Bosch SmartphoneHub ensures good connectivity

Read Review

Feb 2022 · Russell Burton

A well-specified, comfortable and versatile ebike, but at a serious price

Expensive, especially if you’re considering leaving it outside the local shop

Jan 2021 · Susanne Feddersen

One bike for all occasions – with the Trek Powerfly FS 7, the American brand promises to have created a true all-rounder. The smart concept should please everyone 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.

All-round capabilities

Overall concept

Good-natured and intuitive handling

Confidence-inspiring

Comfortable riding position and low top tube

Responsiveness of the fork is mediocre

No model featuring the Nyon display

Price: $5999.00 | Model Year: 2021 | A premium

A premium "do anything" full suspension electric bike that's equipped to handle pavement, trails, light mountain terrain, rain, shine, day, or night conditions. Available in five frame sizes for optimal fit, the XS and S come with 27.5" wheels and the M, L, and XL come with 29" wheels. Sold through one of North America's largest network of dealers. Trek and Bosch provide excellent support and warranty.

Custom made extra-wide plastic fenders are durable and quiet, very capable in off-road conditions. A sleek and sturdy rear rack provides 25kg (55lbs) of cargo capacity with pannier hangers on both sides and a removable top platform for trunk bags. Puncture resistant tires also feature unique black reflective stripes that combine safety with aesthetics.

Downtube-integrated battery pack and mid-drive motor keep weight low and center. Trek designed a "RIB" battery casing includes a handle for safe removal and transport. The battery doesn't rattle, and it can be charged on or off the bike with the fast 4 amp charger. Peformance Line CX motor is the most powerful from Bosch, but lightweight with a magnesium casing.

Highly adjustable air suspension front and rear with 120mm and 100mm travel respectively. Boost hub spacing and thru-axles increase wheel strength. Extra large 203mm hydraulic disc brakes with heat sinks and alloy cores deliver incredible stopping power. The biggest trade-offs here include the high price, smartphone display (that some may not like), louder motor operation, and increased weight (due to the high capacity battery and accessories).

The 2021 Trek Powerfly full suspension e-MTBs blend European sensibility with modern trail capability for a unique e-mountain bike option.

If I had to think of one common theme that continually came up during our time with the Powerfly, that would be it—too damn fun. Over the months we’ve had this bike, we’ve done it all and it does it all with ease.

Oct 2018 · Alan Muldoon

Up hill or down, ebikes take an absolute beating, so the new Trek Powerfly 9 has a beefed up the parts package to handle the additional abuse.

Suspension, brakes and tyres are all on point. New battery layout is neat and easy to use.

Could have more generous reach measurements and shorter stems on all sizes.

New in this Powerfly generation are an advanced removable battery system, carbon fiber frames, purpose-built ebike components and the 150mm of travel in the LT model. - Mtbr.com

First added July 25

Last updated July 10

Not listed for 23 days

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St Petersburg

Planning a trip to Saint Petersburg? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

Saint Petersburg

• General information
• What to see
• How to get to St Petersburg
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Why visit Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg, Petrograd, Leningrad... under any of its names, it's an elegant city with an eventful past . Built by Peter the Great in the early 18th century as a display of the power of Imperial Russia to the world , it's an important artistic and cultural center thanks to the wealth of monuments  and museums  that tell its story.

The City of Tsars and the former Russian capital, Saint Petersburg is also intrinsically linked to the water, earning it the nickname " Venice of the North " for its impressive number of canals and bridges . Lavish palaces, exquisite gardens, and some of the world's best museums complete the city's offering for locals and tourists alike.

Relive the elegance of Imperial Russia by visiting Saint Petersburg's fairy tale chateaux: Peterhof Palace , the Winter Palace , and Catherine Palace await you in all their glory. For a well-deserved break after sightseeing, stop in at a local restaurant to indulge in Russian specialties: caviar, vodka, and beef Stroganoff anyone?

From May to June, the White Nights make Saint Petersburg even more magical, with impossibly beautiful sunsets bringing almost-endless summer nights to a close.

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Saint Petersburg and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city, before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Saint Petersburg  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Hotels in St. Petersburg - reserve here for the best prices!

Why is our Saint Petersburg travel guide the best?

Introducing Saint Petersburg is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers , and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of April 2021. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

Our travel guides

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