2014 Trek Stache 7

Colors: Gloss Blue/Gloss Black

Sizes: 17.5"

To many riders who want to explore the trails rarely traveled, a “performance hardtail” usually means “racing mountain bike”. The Stache series from Trek, however, is a different breed of 29’er hardtail that combines versatility with simplicity. The versatility part is how the Stache can roll over technical trails and rock gardens with ease, yet still climb with authority. The simplicity is found in the dual chainring shifting and lack of rear suspension. The slack head angle and long wheelbase compared to a racy cross-country bike gives the Stache excellent stability when broken singletrack tries to throw you around.

The Stache 7 is built around an Alpha Platinum aluminum frame for a light and rigid platform, improving the bike’s agility and power delivery. A thru-axle Closed Convert rear dropout anchors the Stache 7’s hub and rear triangle to keep the frame flex-free, even under hard pedaling loads. A press-fit bottom bracket holds the crankset solidly for uphill charges. The frame even has cable routing for an optional dropper post. The RockShox Recon Silver air-adjustable suspension fork is installed in a tapered steerer tube and features 120mm of travel for hard landings. It even has a lockout function for charging down fire roads.

SRAM’s 10-speed X7 shifters operate an X7 front and X9 rear derailleur for lightning-quick response, while a Race Face Ride 36/22T double crankset works with an 11-36T 10-speed cassette for a hill-climber’s smorgasbord of gearing. Shimano’s hydraulic disc brakes reign in speed with improved lever feedback compared to cable-actuated calipers. Bontrager’s alloy Duster wheels have thru-axles front and rear, while the rims have eyeleted spoke ends and are tubeless-ready. Wrapped with 2.3” XR3 Expert tires for confidence-inspiring grip, the Stache 7’s wheels are backcountry-ready. Bontrager also supplies the Rhythm Comp stem, Low Riser alloy handlebar and Evoke 2 saddle.