An elevated drive side chainstay that allows for maximum frame stiffness and strength, while allowing just about the shortest rear end we’ve ever seen on a test bike, regardless of wheelsize, at 420mm. The Stache features Trek’s patented Mid-stay. Some, like the Santa Cruz Heckler, are still around today. Cast your mind back (if you remember such things) to the 1990s and the myriad of elevated-chainstay bikes available. One problem that Plus bikes, and mountain bikes in general, have struggled with is the question: “How do we keep the rear end super short, but still have room for tyre, frame and chain ring all in that compact little zone around the drive side bottom bracket?” The removal of allowances for front derailleurs on many bikes over the last couple of seasons has helped - but clearances always walk a fine line with Plus bikes. The 29x3.0” rubber is the first thing that will grab the attention of riders and passers-by alike, but there are some very interesting details in this thing that you may not have ever seen before in a bike. The Stache is an interesting looking beast. We got our hands on the mid-spec alloy Stache 7 and got busy finding out how they went. With their Stache models, Trek aim to redefine the 29+ genre with a range of bikes that are super comfortable and roll extremely well - but handle like a trail bike should and don’t weigh a tonne. The options have remained slim since then however, mostly due to the lack of suspension fork options, and 29+ has been the domain of the bikepacker who had very little need for a light, nimble bike as long as it could roll through hell and back. In truth the 29+ category predates the rise of other Plus bikes by some years, first being brought to life by Surly in 2012 with their Krampus. ![]() The Bontrager components are as light as they are tough, and just in case you don't want to roll the 50mm-wide Mule rims all the time, the Stache's Stanglehold dropouts are compatible with 27.Words: Adam Macbeth Photos: Tim Bardsley-Smith SRAM's X1 cranks power a wide-ranging GX 1x11-speed drivetrain, and SRAM Guide R brakes bring regulate that speed smoothly and precisely. That 148mm-wide rear end is enhanced by super short chainstays that let you rip through berms, dominate twisty trails, and out-accelerate your crew. Trek loaded the Platinum aluminum frame with all the features of a fully legit trail bike, like G2 trail geometry, E2 tapered head tube, internal dropper-post routing and a Boost 148 rear end. This bike gets down to business with 29-inch wheels wrapped with fat, 3-inch wide tires and a 120mm-travel Manitou fork that dares anything to get in your way. ![]() That pretty much sums up Trek's Stache 7. Raceface Turbinze, 35mm, 15mm rise, 800mm widthįast. Integrated, cartridge bearing, sealed, 1-1/8-inch top, 1.5-inch bottom FSAīontrager sealed cartridge bearing, alloy front axle Manitou Magnum 34 Comp, Boost110, 120mm travel (There a couple of Paint scratches but there are no cracks or dents that will affect the ride quality on this bike)Īlpha Platinum Aluminum, Boost148, Midstay, E2 tapered head tube, internal derailleur & dropper post routing, Stranglehold dropouts Right now the only upgraded parts that I have on it are KS Lev Dropper 100mm, Race Face Turbinze Bar and Stem at 800mm width and 35mm circumference that can be cut down (new), SRAM GUIDE R Brakes (4 Piston Caliper)(new), Hope Rotor in the front for better stopping power (New)(can be swapped), Maxxis Chronicle tires for optimal traction that does not hurt you on pedal efficiency(new), and a brand new Sun Race Duroc 50 29’ Rim in the rear. ![]() There are only a handful of rides on the last fork service. The cassette and chain is relatively new. The drivetrain needs works fine but is a little banged up. I also work at a bike shop wear all the mechanics cleared it to sell by giving it a $300 tune-up. The bike has been well maintained and slept inside at night. I would keep it if I didn't need to fund a new full-suspension build. 29+ The is one of the most fun hardtails that I have ever ridden.
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