Is Polygon better than Trek?

Revealing my New Polygon Siskiu T9 and giving you a side-by-side comparison with the Trek Fuel EX 7 to show you why I believe the Polygon mountain bike is better in almost every way.
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Chapters:
00:00 - DON'T BUY Trek, Specialized, Yeti...
00:50 - Side-by-Side Trek versus Polygon
06:30 - How to Support the Channel

[@guambra2001]

The biggest part you forgot was that Trek gives someone peace of mind of having dealer support when something goes wrong. Now I’m not saying that’s worth the discrepancy in price but for some people, it just might. Also, keep in mind the lifetime warranty on the frame on the Trek vs the 5 year warranty on the Polygon. I have two polygons and one trek so I’m super biased either way

[@JaredHoff]

You brought up some good points 👍

[@outsidefootdab4878]

I think most enthusiast riders generally have a bike 5 years with before they buy their new one. Lifetime warranty makes sense for things like carbon wheels. But i decent warranty is totally valid point.

[@rashman763]

Not my dealer here in clermont flrida they poor customer service service just the hanger its take 4 weeks to work and leave my brandnew riscoe for 4 weeks cuz they dont have hanger por service i go winter garden perfect service 😂

[@evanhanzlik5556]

No they don’t .maybe if you crack the frame and they don’t find a way to make it seam like your fault..

[@travisgibson5545]

​@@rashman763Periods. Save. Lives.

[@Ryland_28]

I guess it's alli relative and based on who you're talking to. After a year and a half into the hobby, I'm STILL absolutely blown away that a price tag that sits in and around the $2.5k - $3k mark is considered cheap/budget friendly. Spec wise the polygon may trump, but the trek definitely looks better...imho. 😊 Actually, it looks WAY better. 😄

[@JaredHoff]

I hear ya. Definitely not a cheap sport to get involved

[@marksummeril]

Hey, great video. I’ve been riding polygons for a couple years now and I have absolutely loved them.

[@JaredHoff]

Thanks for the feedback. I’ve been loving my Polygon bikes as well 🤘

[@cbson9368]

I have bought 2 polygon bikes. One is Helios F5 and one Siskiu T8 . I personally think they are on par with top end bikes at a decent price. As for support it depends on which region u are from.

[@JaredHoff]

I’ve had good support in the U.S.

[@Rad_MTB_Rage]

Good stuff bro ! I got a polygon Colossus N8E and I love it $3799 . My first EBike 🔥🔥🔥

[@JaredHoff]

Heck yeah. That’s a great e-bike! High spec shimano parts everywhere

[@rogerbrowne4014]

This is a really good review and thanks for doing it. You time and effort is appreciated. HOWEVER, you should have listed all the points you made side by side (Summary) at the end of your very good review so we see just how many ways the Polygon is better. That would have made it really good. Also, you should have listed the weight of the Trek as is compared to the Polygon T9. I was really interested in that. For me that would have made the review perfect. Other wise good job.

[@JaredHoff]

Thanks for the feedback 👍

[@reneh.6551]

Agree with all your comments. The only downside on Direct to Consumer brands is that you cannot test drive/ride (that I'm aware of), but you can test drive/ride the Trek... Important thing before throwing $2,700. 🤷

[@JaredHoff]

For sure! Getting the right size bike makes a huge difference.

[@mergenbaatarsuren-uw3mo]

hey! im the guy that was asking you to review Chinese brakes but i got a hydraulic brake and the oil is leaking from the piston . Can you make a video about how to fix that? thanks

[@JaredHoff]

This isn’t my video but hopefully it helps. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYGkd2tsfbeKn8ksi=ZD2c1g0o86T9AEuO

[@mergenbaatarsuren-uw3mo]

@@JaredHoff how would a editing video helps me to fix my brake?

[@ArdianSutarjan]

@@JaredHoff wrong video dude

[@cwhitty05]

Thanks for the info! I’ve been eyeing up the T9 and Fuel EX. I have a local Trek dealer and they are phenomenal to deal with. They truly will bend over backwards to help you and guide you in the right direction. But man, I can’t justify paying so much more for less bike. To get the T9 components on a Trek, you’d have to spend $4-5k or more. Seems to me like it’s a better idea to get a T9, a good set of wheels, go tubeless, get a faster rolling 2.4”rear tire, maybe upgrade to the TRP 203mm front rotor and just send it!

[@JaredHoff]

Glad to have helped man. If you decide to purchase a T-9 please use the link in the video description. It helps the channel a lot. I’m currently working on a wheel upgrade video for the T9. Thinking about a set of Hunt wheels.

[@cwhitty05]

@@JaredHoff I certainly will, and definitely looking forward to the wheel upgrade video. I was thinking of going with some Noble carbon wheels, but not sure if spending $1700 on a $3000 bike would be worth it. Although Ive heard wheels make the most difference if any upgrade so might actually be worth it.

[@acuhealer62]

@@cwhitty05 A set of Nobl TR 37's with DT Swiss 350 hubs will set you back approx 1300 bucks. I just had a set built with the Hope 5 hubs and paid 1350. Great wheels and very light. I think a totally worthy upgrade for a Polygon.

[@or-ian6973]

Nice to meet you at the Black rock shuttle day. I still can’t believe I recognized you. personally I think Yt are better bikes for the money.

[@JaredHoff]

Great meeting you too man! YT makes some great bikes 👍 I’ve been loving these polygons though

[@Onehardbuffalo]

How do polygon compare to a specialized stumpjumper?

[@JaredHoff]

Specialized has some good deals lately and specialized also makes carbon frames. I think the T9 is hard to beat right now because of the suspension, brakes, and saddle that come on it.

[@squidsleap]

I think if we're all being honest with ourselves, it doesn't take a crazy price tag to enjoy blasting a trail. I rode a 2002 canondale jekyll lefty for 14yrs. 100mm teacel bike with small breaks and a weak single pivot rear end with no ability to upgrade the shock beyond what mine came with due to the threaded body to adjust the geometry. I loved it anyway, rode it as an xc bike and it didnt break on me. I also had a specialized big hit for shuttle/lift rides from 2008 to 2020 (prices went crazy during covid so I sold it). Ive been eye balling the T9 as a way to get back into mnt biking and have the capability to ride the lift access rides as well as pedal my local trails. Its what us older people would call an all mountain bike 😂. I could stand to lose way more lbs off me than doubling the price of the bike could save, and having things to upgrade over time is part of the hobby for me. When I started riding front suspention was unobtainium and 2.10in tires were considered wide 😂😂😂

[@JaredHoff]

T9 is an amazing bike. I like my N9 more for lift access bike parks, but T9 is a better all-around mountain bike for most trail riding.

[@robgoffroad]

I haven't seen the T9 on the Polygon website, just the T7 and T8.

[@JaredHoff]

Use the link in my video description. Let me know if that doesn’t bring you right to the bike.

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

Trp dh-r evo are trp’s most premium brakes they offer they are around $600 for the matte black color and go up a little if you go silver or gold

[@JaredHoff]

Gold TRPs would look so good on this bike 👍

[@soupbums]

Only three mtb companies should survive YT POLYGON COMMENCAl

[@JaredHoff]

Those are all great options

[@mattk3535]

Canyon

[@waynelenderman1115]

Specialized

[@shellderp]

Treks prices are insane. I just picked up a top spec specialized stumpjumper evo for 40% off. Polygon looks alright but I haven't been able to find them in Canada

[@JaredHoff]

Specialized has some great sales. Sounds like you got a good deal 👍

[@jonathan.lastra]

I like the stock components on the polygon vs trek. Brakes are a huge factor for me; second is probably suspension.

[@JaredHoff]

Totally agree with you. There are a couple upgrades I “need” for the T9 but it rides good out of the box.

[@LaurentiusTriarius]

It's raining & I fell off a skinny this morning I properly bended my front rotor, so I stopped at the nearest lbs they had a replacement hope 6 bolt disc for 150$, I was like "install is included right?" Dude looked at me cold as ice, "yeah if you want you can come back this afternoon" I said no thanks bent my rotor back the best I could ... You really ain't losing a lot by buying online, not that all LBS are that ishy but you're so better off to learn to wrench and buying online ... 😅 Anyway

[@JaredHoff]

Dang. My local bike shop would have installed that for free. Man, ridiculous

[@vitoonto]

Yeah, that's a shame. My lbs is absolutely awesome. They don't overcharge and have treated my T8 as if they sold it to me themselves.

[@travisgibson5545]

I am in complete agreement here. Got a gawking laugh when the lbs saw what I was walking through the front door. And my t8 is a clean bike. Irritated because another poor sap didn't buy their s works. Let the people afford what they can to enjoy the sport. It shouldn't take financing a small camper to go ride a local trail. I've had great help online with more than generous compensation for repairs, etc. FLBS

[@beauharvey8138]

The polygon is definitely a win on specs for money but your paying for the brand with Trek, frame looks and features like flip chip frame storage and downtube guards can run 29 or mullet that fuel ex has so many adjustments. Your paying for the brand and frame features

[@JaredHoff]

Agree 👍

[@everydaycarryzilla1591]

What hubs are on the Polygon?

[@JaredHoff]

Shimano hubs with low engagement. I’ve got a wheel upgrade video in the works.

[@everydaycarryzilla1591]

Ever Heard of "Weapon" Brand? They have hubs too...

[@EvansMTBSaga]

The thumbnail gives the end result of the video test giving someone a reason to not watch. Title could go "Is Polygon better than Trek?" and for the thumb ditch the winner and loser, boom thats some compelling packaging

[@JaredHoff]

Thanks man. I truly appreciate your feedback. I guess I thought people would want to see why though Trek was the winner, but I’ll try changing it up.

[@romanrubaj2109]

Pollygon has nicer look frame as well. Thanks mate for that video. Eye opening.

[@JaredHoff]

Glad to have helped man. Thanks for taking time to leave a comment 👍

[@SuperShreddies]

I don’t know why people have to harp on the fact that you get a hook up. Doesn’t matter. The numbers don’t lie. Better value in the Polygon. 💥

[@JaredHoff]

For sure! I’m not being paid to say any of this stuff 👍 Just an average rider like most riders out there trying to share my experiences with fellow riders.

[@boxinggloves6834]

Polygon as a name of brand sound great if their bikes could have more fancy aluminium profiles then easily would cost x2

[@SteveKimbo]

Is it a 'budget' bike or is that just the price bikes should be? I bought a Canyon Spectral in 2020 with a full SLX groupset and 4-pot brakes, Fox 36 and DPX2, DT Swiss wheels and an alloy frame and it cost £2249 and I don't know how they made money out of them. There's no reason you shouldn't be able to get a good bike for 2-3k. You can have more Kashima and more linkages and more branding but that doesn't make the bike any better for you or me. We all know that they're all made in the same far east factories anyway!

[@JaredHoff]

You make some good points. Prices have been coming down, but still too expensive

[@travisgibson5545]

That same canyon does not cost 2-3k anymore papa

[@SteveKimbo]

@@travisgibson5545Papa? Yeah, you're right, but my point is a decent bike shouldn't have to cost more than £3,000. My current bike cost closer to 7k and it doesn't even have a motor 😂

[@IronLordFitness]

The more I dig into bikes litterature, forums, websites, shops, talking to riders, all day everyday to choose my next mtb, the more I wonder : since when do we accept that under 4k-5k a bike is just "decent". Since when customers accept to pay sometimes the price of a used car for 12 kilos of aluminum and plastic? Making a bike is not rocket science. It's not an engineering exploit. Especially when your job consists in to design a frame and finish the other 80% of your product with japanese components. As a designer myself I don't get it. My best friend who is an engineer and works with the most expensive raw materials on the planet, and is a rider himself, can't justify the price tag of bikes nowadays. Nothing justify it.

[@braviux]

Polygon its eating trek for sure.. i own a T8 and its a lot of bike for the money

[@JaredHoff]

Most definitely 👍 It interesting to watch how much Polygon is growing while Trek seems to be declining.

[@xjayxone8548]

Pretty nice Polygon

[@JaredHoff]

Thanks 👍

[@virginiascurti5036]

When they offer smalls in 29" wheels I'll get one.

[@JaredHoff]

I would get a small. Then put a 29” wheel on the front. I’m working on a video now upgrade ng the wheels to set of Hunt trail wide wheels. They also sell a mullet set of wheels on sale right now for less than $400. The Fox fork is already on a size 29” comparable. That’s would be the best way to go 👍

[@skg901]

How much better is the T9 compared to T8

[@JaredHoff]

The suspension is the big difference. How hard do you ride? If you mostly ride advanced and experts only trails,,, I’d go with the T9. I personally wouldn’t get a T8, but I am always pushing my limits and riding advanced trails.

[@trailpimp6369]

I love Polygon🔥🙏

[@JaredHoff]

Definitely 👍 I’ve got a few small upgrades then I’ll be doing a T9 vs N9 video

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

Honestly trek makes some really cool bikes but since I been riding my Marin Riftzone 3 27.5” i would probably consider a polygon over a trek I have had my eye on the trek top fuel for awhile now.

[@JaredHoff]

Top fuel is a great bike. But I do think you can get something for cheaper that will perform just as good.

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

@@JaredHoff I agree my Marin Riftzone 3 27.5 2022 was $3000 msrp but I got it for $2400 plus I traded in my bobcat trail 5 2021 super smooth fast rolling but limited on upgrade ability and no rear thru axle was a bummer for me so I pretty much saved on taxes with that trade in and I am so far loving that bike

[@petedog9581]

I would put the Polygon's parts on the Trek frame. Lol.

[@JaredHoff]

😂 I hear ya. I had to trade in my Trek Fuel EX “Dream Build” to buy my son this Fuel EX. But I’m loving this T9 and can’t wait to upgrade a couple things on it…

[@petedog9581]

@@JaredHoff It is a sweet bike. I just bought a Rocky Mountain Instinct C30 w a full Deore build, Marzocchi Z2 150, Fox DPS, Maxxis DFR/DHR, etc. for $2800. They have to recoup operating and R&D costs for bikes in boxes on racks. My win!

[@AlmightyRodga]

The roscoe 8 is the GOAT

[@JaredHoff]

That’s definitely a great MTB 👍

[@AlmightyRodga]

@@JaredHoff But in all honesty you can’t go wrong with polygon either 😅 I feel like you get the best of both worlds with both companies. They both make great mountain bikes

[@travisgibson5545]

Over the weekend I got to ride my buddies 2020 stumpjumper comp carbon. He tried out my t8. Which has the exact same amount of travel. He preferred my bikes headtube angle and commented several times on its agility. I feel like eveyone bashes on polygon, or it's easier to, until uoure on one. He might beat me by 4 lbs. But i beat him by over 5k. Is poylgon better than trek? A quick google search will avail a no. But, is polygon an excellent entry point into the game, with great customer service (US)? Absolutely. I am tired of lbs trying to get me to buy the s works. My car doesnt even cost that much. Let the people buy what they can afford and enjoy. The current bike market is nuts.

[@JaredHoff]

💯 Percent agree with you. Thanks for taking time to leave that.

[@joeleaton141]

You forgot to mention the massive dental bill when your Polygon frame snaps.

[@JaredHoff]

I’ve seen Trek frames snap as well.

[@topchoice1621]

Any MTB that comes stock with a rockshox RL gold 35 is just straight disrespectful

[@JaredHoff]

I kind of agree. I rode that fork and didn’t like it. But it works for my son at the moment. Although maybe I should grade his bike 🤔

[@jaynus08]

If you're just a regular dude riding bikes on a weekend then Polygon is the best bike for you, but if you plan to race or you are a competitive rider already then go for the top brands.

[@JaredHoff]

I can agree with that. But with the right upgrades my Polygon N9 could do good in an enduro race

[@troymortimer3487]

I can’t remember if they said the new carbon was being released for the n9 or just the new DH rig. If it is for the n9. Look out! Also I think commencial will still be heavier.

[@virginiascurti5036]

the T8 is no slacker either!

[@JaredHoff]

True. Same frame.

[@mrman26]

Another great video. I disagree with you in part, and agree with you in part. (Full disclosure: I have a Gen 5 Fuel EX that I have upgraded with premium components and increased fork travel). I prefer the Trek because I like their ABP suspension design. I also like that the rear shock sits lower on the frame, which gives the Trek a lower center of gravity. I also feel like I can trust Trek’s aluminum (which is actually my preferred frame material), while I don’t really know anything about the grade of aluminum that budget bikes like Polygon use. The Gen 6 Fuel EX also appears to be a much more adjustable bike, which also scores it some value/versatility points. That said, Polygon is a great option for getting people out on the trail at an affordable price. No, you don’t really NEED the more expensive Trek, but it is sexier. If sexiness and adjustability are not important to you, then you should absolutely get the cheaper bike. However, sometimes it’s nice to splurge. It’s like getting a $30 bottle of Merlot compared to a cheap $5 Merlot. Both will pair nicely with steak and put you in a good mood, but there is a difference that connoisseurs will appreciate.

[@JaredHoff]

I totally agree with the points you made. I still miss the Fuel EX I used to have. But I’ve truly been impressed by Polygon bikes and am having a blast riding this T9.

[@SrSul]

In my opinion you should not do a component comparison but a ride comparison. While I do agree that TREK is overpriced, when you buy a bike, you mostly buy the frame and the suspension design and that is what many of these budget bikes are lacking. If you take a look at YT, Canyon, Polygon they all have the same basic linkage design and they all ride the same (I know, I owned a Capra and a Torque). And that is the reason I always come back to TREK, even though I tried running away from it 3 times now :) Also, I usually only buy frameset and not the full bike :D

[@JaredHoff]

I still like the way Trek bikes ride so don’t disagree with ya. But I do think all bikes ride so good these days. There’s definitely a difference if you ride both back-to-back. Just not a big enough difference to make it worth the price for most riders. In my humble opinion.

[@Stockfish1511]

Imo Trek has the bikes, but they have low value to spec ratio. But if you have money, trek is the thing. Also imo they make sexiest bikes. The amount of comments and compliments i get for my 2022 carbon slash is of funny. Didnt ride during winter took the bike out this week. Both riding days had people asking about the cost of the bike lol. Trek not only performs but also looks the part. Downsight is the price. Its opinion, but i would pay extra bucks for the looks. Trek slash just looks nasty good

[@JaredHoff]

Totally agree with ya. I loved my fuel EX and my Slash. But after riding Polygon’s I’ve realized all bikes these days are so good and the spec you get on the T9 is amazing for the price.

[@orishomer]

i ride on trek fuel ex 9.7 and i can tell you that i dont like the wheels thay got dents really easy... its like butter wheels. i upgraded almost everything on the bike :)

[@JaredHoff]

I like that carbon Fuel EX frame though and now you got the bike exactly how you want it which is always something special 🤘

[@orishomer]

@@JaredHoff yes i put rear ext coil shock, front ext fork, shimano saint brakes, xt cassete and chain. And rear wheel 27.5 dt swiss ex 511 with hope pro 5

[@Claro718]

TREK❤❤❤❤

[@JaredHoff]

I still like Trek bikes. Just hard to compete with what you get for the price from brands like Polygon.

[@Claro718]

@@JaredHoff Agree. I have one trek slash Gen 5 and i love it 😁

[@offdaystv]

The polygon cables are so ugly. The front brake cable is so long 😭, but the polygon itself looks so good. I’d take the polygon over the trek for sure

[@JaredHoff]

The dropper post cable is really long as well. I definitely want to clean that up when I upgrade this bike.

[@barryyoung8617]

The welds on the Trek are nasty. Polygon looks alot cleaner.

[@JaredHoff]

I didn’t even compare that but you’re right 👍

[@manfredstrappen7491]

Polygon has to be short cutting somewhere. No free lunch.

[@JaredHoff]

For sure 👍

[@michaeltan9438]

Manufacturing in Indonesia. Cost of production is much lower - yet they maintain decent quality. I'm very happy with Polygon - I have 2 in my stable.

[@mwinner101]

I’ll take the Trek.

[@JaredHoff]

Definitely choose the bike that gets you stoked to go ride!

[@bullit4x]

You’re stoked on polygon cause you get them free. I’d be stoked on a unicycle if I got one free.the polygon is a better spec. But it’s just so dang heavy. But I’ll take one for free and join the fanboy club. Absolutely. I’ll put it on blast on my insta.

[@JaredHoff]

All bikes are so good these days. It really comes down to the price you’re paying and the parts spec you get for that price. You’re right that I get these sent to me for free, but I’ve rode Trek and Polygon bikes back-to-back on the same trails and truly believe that the T9 beats the Fuel EX. They both ride great though. All bikes do these days 🤷🏼‍♂️ I always try to keep it real and give honest reviews.

[@bullit4x]

@@JaredHoff that’s why I’m a subscriber. You keep it real. And I like your style. I’m really thinking about that little trail bike. I’ve got some nobl wheels and other goodies that I think would make it a respectable all day kinda bike. Suspension and drivetrain are spot on. But the wheels gotta go. I think that the majority of the weight comes from the oem Wheelset

[@323johnnybravo]

I’ll take a unicycle over a trek any day. That Polygon is super nice. The value is unreal.

[@richardwebb3013]

The t9 weight is no big deal. Just like adding 3l of water, or heavy gear. Or fat body riders. Mine rips. Wheels are no issue. Tubeless also

[@ryanfox2182]

It’s 2 lbs bro. You used to be a road biker didn’t you?

[@anonymouse2564]

Price is better Polygon

[@JaredHoff]

Definitely 👍

[@CJGrand1]

Yes, Polygon is a better bike.

[@JaredHoff]

I still like the Fuel EX, but you just can’t beet the price and parts spec on the Polygon.

[@CJGrand1]

Fisheye is annoying, but the video is great otherwise.

[@JaredHoff]

Thanks for the feedback

[@finroddd]

Hahaha, man, spec-wise these bikes are barely comparable! Polygon is miles ahead.

[@JaredHoff]

For sure. That’s exactly what I was thinking when I was looking at them side-by-side

[@finroddd]

@@JaredHoff Thanks for that!