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Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 specifications and in-depth review

Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5

Manufacturer: Trek

The Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 is a robust electric bike designed for riders looking for a reliable, versatile ride. Featuring a carbon fiber frame and both front and rear suspension, it’s built for comfort and durability on various terrains.

This e-bike comes equipped with an 800 Wh battery that charges in 5 hours, a 250W mid-drive motor, and a 12-speed gear system for smooth performance. With a top speed of 32 km/h, the Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 also includes a removable battery, hydraulic disc brakes, and a dedicated smartphone app for added convenience.

Pros
  • The carbon fiber frame provides a lightweight yet durable build for a smoother ride.
  • With both front and rear suspension, the bike offers enhanced comfort on rough terrain.
  • The 12-speed gear system allows for versatile riding, offering a range of options for different terrains.
  • The 800 Wh removable battery provides a good amount of power for longer rides, with a relatively quick 5-hour charge time.
  • The dedicated smartphone app adds convenience for managing the bike’s settings and features.
Cons
  • The bike does not feature regenerative braking, limiting energy recovery during braking.
  • It lacks rear lights, which may be a safety concern in low visibility conditions.
  • There is no anti-theft feature, making the bike more vulnerable to theft.
  • The bike does not have a display, which limits visibility into key ride metrics.
  • It cannot be folded, making storage and transport less convenient in tight spaces.
Who is this for?

The Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 is well-suited for riders who seek a versatile and comfortable electric bike for off-road and varied terrain. Its front and rear suspension provide a smooth ride on uneven surfaces, while the 12-speed gear system offers flexibility for tackling different trails. The 800 Wh removable battery ensures longer rides, and the dedicated smartphone app adds convenience for managing bike settings.

Who is this NOT for?

This bike may not be suitable for those who require advanced safety features, as it lacks anti-theft features and does not have a rear light. Additionally, the absence of a display limits the ability to track ride metrics, which could be a drawback for riders who want more data. The lack of folding capabilities also makes it less convenient for users with limited storage space.

Design:

frame material Carbon fiber
weight 23730 g
has front suspension ✓
has rear suspension ✓
has an in-frame battery ✓
can be folded ✕
has internal cable routing ✓
is designed for kids ✕

The design of the Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 is built for performance and durability, featuring a carbon fiber frame that offers strength without excessive weight. The bike includes both front and rear suspension, ensuring a smoother ride over rough terrain. It also has an in-frame battery for a sleek look and more balanced weight distribution. With internal cable routing, the bike maintains a clean, streamlined appearance, while its weight is 23,730 g. This model is not designed for kids and cannot be folded for storage.

Battery:

battery size 800 Wh
charge time 5 hours
Has regenerative braking ✕
has a removable battery ✓

The Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 is equipped with an 800 Wh battery that provides ample power for extended rides. The battery can be easily removed for charging or replacement, offering flexibility. With a charge time of just 5 hours, you can get back on the road quickly. However, this bike does not feature regenerative braking.

Performance:

braking system Hydraulic disc brakes
maximum torque 85 Nm
has a turbo mode ✓
has an eco mode ✓
motor power 250W
is a multi-gear bike ✓
number of gears 12
is a single-gear bike ✕
drive motor type Mid-drive motor
top speed 32 km/h

The Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 delivers solid performance with a 250W mid-drive motor that offers a maximum torque of 85 Nm. This e-bike features a 12-speed gear system, making it a multi-gear bike for versatile riding. You can switch between turbo mode for added power and eco mode for energy efficiency. With a top speed of 32 km/h, this bike is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power.

Features:

release date April 2025
has anti-theft features ✕
Has a display ✕
Has a dedicated smartphone app ✓
has front light(s) ✓
has rear light(s) ✕

The Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 includes several practical features to enhance your riding experience. It is equipped with a front light for better visibility during low-light conditions, though it does not have a rear light. Additionally, the bike supports a dedicated smartphone app for convenient connectivity, but it does not come with anti-theft features or a display.

Final Verdict

The Trek Rail Plus 9.7 Gen 5 is a well-rounded electric bike ideal for riders seeking a comfortable and capable ride on varied terrains. With its carbon fiber frame and both front and rear suspension, it offers a smooth experience for off-road enthusiasts. The 800 Wh removable battery ensures extended rides, while the 12-speed gear system adds versatility. Although it lacks features like a rear light and anti-theft protection, this bike remains a strong option for those who prioritize performance and ride quality over additional safety features or compact storage.

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