Trek X-Caliber 7 vs 8 vs 9!! What’s The Difference?

Check out the X-Caliber here: bit.ly/3oCQZCe
In this video I compare all the similarities and differences between the 2021 Trek X-Caliber 7, X-Caliber 8, and X-Caliber 9 in depth. I cover everything you need to know to choose which bike is right for you!

[@TalalipopMTB]

Corrections to video: 1) Only the bikes in sizes L, XL, and XXL use 180mm front brake rotors; all other bike sizes use 160mm rotors in the front and rear. 2) The X-Caliber 9 uses a combination of the Shimano SLX and Shimano XT drivetrains, not just the SLX. 3) The 2021 X-Caliber 7 has increased in price to $1,040.

[@elvinmomon9311]

What's your channel so I can just go and watch you ?!? Lol !!!!!

[@TalalipopMTB]

@@elvinmomon9311 This is my channel hahaha, it's kzbin.info

[@cw205mi16]

On point (1) On the X-Cal 9 I think all sizes use 180mm front?

[@gethermedel3620]

does the Frame Dropout have a convertible for Thru Axle? my concern is the hubs availability for 12 shimano microspline

[@djg5135]

This should be required watching for Treck employees. Thanks for taking the time to make these.

[@TalalipopMTB]

Hahaha thank you!!

[@adambage]

Brilliant video, many thanks for taking the time to make these!

[@VantagePoint2]

Thanks for going over the Trek models. Not many people do trek videos or have one. Fun to see you grow great video!

[@jasperberfong]

Agreed

[@jacobm.6904]

So cool too see your channel grow from a few hundred subs to one thousand in a few weeks!

[@owencasey5849]

You should totally have more subscribers. Your videos all have really good quality. Keep up the good work man

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!!

[@hoser7706]

Thank you for once again making my bike model decisions clear!!! Wow! You did my research!

[@TalalipopMTB]

Of course! Glad it helped :)

[@daem3n]

more "What's the Difference" videos please. Very well done and helpful. Thanks!

[@gostros407]

Just bought one of the last two XCaliber 9 XL 2021 models in the country. I live in SoCal and the bike was In Connecticut. Local Trek shop did a trade between stores and it is in route!! Can’t wait. Thanks for the video.

[@TalalipopMTB]

Nice!!! Glad it worked out :)

[@jeffp7270]

Thank you brother, great run down.

[@slt5431]

This video is really clear and easy understanding

[@yourhairlineisgone]

Great video as always. Congrats on the 1.2k subs. Keep up the good work👍

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thanks!

[@nitrane]

Excellent video! Keep up the good work!

[@toddsamjr7454]

I just picked up an x-caliber 8 and I love it. Your video helped make the call.

[@TalalipopMTB]

Awesome!!

[@bartvandenbrink2701]

Hows the sx eagle

[@Blambo36]

Fantastic videos my man. You've earned a subscriber. Jeep up the good work. Would love to see more brands compared. Im new to mountain biking as well. In fact, so new I haven t even gone on a trail yet. Just got my diamondback line about a week ago. Cant wait to start.

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!

[@marcbaptista7381]

Another clear and precisely described video. Thanks!

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!

[@ruben3305]

Lost my license a month ago. Looking for a MTB commuting bike to get to work. Thank you so much for the info. Been eyeballing the Xcaliber for a while now but didn’t know the details. Your explanation/breakdown has really made it clear on which one I should buy. Thanks for the info.

[@TalalipopMTB]

No problem! I’m glad my vids helped out :)

[@SamSung-gf3rt]

Great videos, very well done

[@dasbabu7261]

You are awesome man, the way you explain is awesome 😘

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!!

[@pmiskovic]

this video is fantastic, exactly what I was looking for, amazing. Thanks.

[@TalalipopMTB]

Glad it helped!

[@Zero_Cola895]

Great video. Thanks

[@Tribal260]

amazing comparison vid. well done

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you :)

[@remingtonclark5404]

so helpful thanks

[@rednamgreen7190]

Very good and helpful video!

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!!

[@thedocchannel7208]

Great video. I can´t believe the use of Shimano MT 200 Brakes in this level (Acera groupset). Just the Xcaliber 9 (alivio groupset brakes) gettin close to deore brakes.

[@flpirate4565]

Well done,thanks

[@jacekobral7642]

great video, good job!

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!!

[@kashifnyc]

Great videos. I have seen all of your x-caliber and Roscoe videos. GREAT JOB! in going over the specs and differences. I was leaning towards Roscoe but now looking for x-caliber 8 in red now. It would be great if you can find me one :) - Can find ROSCOE or X-Caliber anywhere in NY/NJ area. ughhh!

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!! Unfortunately I don’t know a way of finding them :( your local Trek dealer may be able to help with that more though!

[@ulisesramirezsalinas]

I love my X-cal 8 2021, the geometry of the frame is awesome!!!!!!!!!! I love those trek engineers and the many years of expertise and knowledge

[@CapitanFALCON809]

excellent work!

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!

[@miniorek]

Great job. Thanks.

[@TalalipopMTB]

No problem :)

[@leeasy7112]

I prefer the drive train on the xcaliber 9, but I preordered xcaliber 8. Because I really hate the frame color of the xcaliber 9 .

[@joseruiz3593]

I just preordered the x caliber 8 can’t wait !!!

[@elmerihartelin]

I ordered x caliber 7

[@FuriaKKK]

When will it arrive?

[@bigbang3881]

The 2021 models?

[@joseruiz3593]

big bang yup

[@a4ktb]

Smae

[@jackc3899]

Loving these videos best on KZbin making me want to go for a trek do you think each model is worth the more money thanks dude.

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!! These models are from 2021 and have been updated now, and in my opinion the X-Caliber 9 for 2022 is the most worth it for the money.

[@aus80srockradio94]

This is a great video. New Susbscriber here!

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!!

[@marcjolasaquino9981]

Hello. I like your video. Please make comparison for trek procaliber 9.6, 9.7, 9.8. thank you!

[@MJ-zl9ud]

great video

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thanks!!

[@udayraswan5157]

Hi...very nice videos...I want to get a bike to drive on road and uphill Also on road track..would a hybrid like dual or FX solve my purpose or should I go for marlin6? Mainly which is better for uphill drive on road?

[@shiny_446]

The videos are well made good job How long have you been doing this for

[@TalalipopMTB]

I started my youtube channel a few weeks ago actually hahaha, so that’s how long I’ve been doing this. I always liked video editing as a hobby but I got into mountain biking a few months ago. Thank you!

[@dodongdakz6996]

Your take on which is better. 2021 trek x caliber 9 vs 2021 scott scale 940. Planning to get one and im torn between the two. Thanks

[@rajg7]

can you do a video on the 2021 Fuel Ex series?

[@gberttv1393]

next video trek fullsus please🤗

[@user-ch8fd4zu8c]

nice video

[@stelightfoot9185]

Can you upgrade the front cassettes on the front of the dual sport 4 2020 version as I myself feel the front cassette are two small and not as good for power as my old DS 8.5 sport

[@basil3130]

Please make a comparison between trek excaliber and Merida big nine similar bikes

[@wilkinsonlee9278]

if you are considering buying one X-caliber 9, you better check Merida Big 9 XT edition, which has a XT brake set, a XT drive line, a XT drailer and a XT shifter. the prices are not very different.

[@bountyhunter5541]

Yes, but it's all about the frame dude...

[@sasori2037]

Is the fork on the xcaliber 7 boosted? Can you fit a 2.4 tyres in it?

[@m2thesea411]

Great video and superb explanation! I'm still a little confused and unsure whether to get the x caliber 8 or spend a little extra and grab the 9. How big of a difference is there in the different drivetrain and the brakes? Please help me out. I appreciate it. Have a good one

[@TalalipopMTB]

In my personal opinion the drivetrain is much better on the 9 after having ridden both, but the one on the 8 is not bad. The main issue with the 8 is the SX derailleur which isn’t as high quality as other SRAM derailleurs so it’s more prone to malfunctioning over a long period of time.

[@dabdab7354]

what's the longest dropper i can fit on a M size x-caliber 8?

[@dennismusic811]

good job

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you :D

[@filipef3073]

I was lucky enough to find a store that will receive a 9 x caliber at the end of May, I wanted a 7 or 8 but only in November, but from what I read I am better off with 9

[@TalalipopMTB]

Yeah the 9 is awesome!

[@lawrencelorcegajopo405]

Hi I’m newbie and I’m planning to buy Caliber series. my question is trek X-Caliber series is good for long ride? Thanks in advance

[@gentlefvckershouse5926]

what's the difference between x caliber 9 2019 and x caliber 9 2021?

[@rove89]

Hello! Do you know if the geometry of the Marlin 5 is equal to the X-Caliber?? (I know that the front seatpost is tapered, but I mean the geometry itself, such as the angle of attack and such things) Greetings from Peru 🇵🇪... keep doing good videos like this!

[@TalalipopMTB]

They are pretty similar actually, though the x-caliber has a shorter chainstay length and shorter wheelbase. All the other frame measurements are the same for 2020/2021.

[@rove89]

Nice, I think that I will go for the Marlin 5 2021, the new colors combination are great!

[@miguelr53]

Any chance can you review trek full stacke 8 please

[@Andrew-ft5zf]

Just got a new Trek Police bike.

[@ventador7761]

Hey! What is the different between x-Caliber 9 2020 and 2021 model ?

[@tavomgl]

Amazing videos! quick question for you. Would I notice the difference driving a Marlin 6 vs a X Caliber 8? I'd go for the 9 but I can't stand the colours.

[@TalalipopMTB]

I personally haven't ridden an x-caliber, but basically everything about that bike is different in terms of the components you get with it and the actual frame. Based on that I'd bet it would feel pretty different, but then again it should based on it's much higher price point. I think the x-cal would definitely be a faster bike and better long term for trail riding. Definitely try to test ride both at a bike shop before you get them though since that'll be a good indicator of how different they feel to you and if you like the feel.

[@AG-rk5hj]

Probably not a big difference riding on the street, but on the trail, you would definitely feel a huge difference

[@tavomgl]

@@AG-rk5hj i bought a marlin 6 a few months ago and im thinking of changing it for an x caliber. Thx

[@morkeomorkei3540]

Hello I want to ask you what bike would you pick....the trek x caliber 7 ( 650 euros ) or the specialized carve pro ( 800 euros )?

[@tavomgl]

Just bought a 2021 x caliber 8 in red! Worth the upgrade from the 2020 marlin 6!

[@bartvandenbrink2701]

Hows the sram sx eagle?

[@tavomgl]

@@bartvandenbrink2701 very smooth great for climbs

[@bartvandenbrink2701]

@@tavomgl havent you had to replace stuff or something like that since i am gonna pickup one today but i wanna be certain about the drivetrain

[@tavomgl]

@@bartvandenbrink2701 haven't replaced anything

[@skandy6847]

I wish I had these videos when I was buying my Marlin

[@VerticalMARS1]

I had my money saved up to get the 2020 Marlin 7 but that stimulus deposit came thru in April And I was able to upgrade to the Excalibar 8. So glad I did.😎

[@skandy6847]

@@VerticalMARS1 that's really cool man, I'm riding a Marlin 6 as of now

[@morganlingsweiler9813]

@@skandy6847 how do you like the Marlin 6? I'm trying to decide between that, the specialized rockhopper, and possibly the x caliber 7.

[@patrickrodriguez8797]

Is the X-Caliber 7 compatible with DuoTrap S?

[@gethermedel3620]

does the Frame Dropout have a convertible for Thru Axle? my concern is the hubs availability for 12 shimano microspline

[@dalec.5681]

I believe hope makes one

[@Pulverpojken]

Bought a X-Caliber 9 about 2 weeks ago. I've only gotten about 6hrs on tough pine forest paths with it but I LOVE it! It feels like a perfect bike to start on and to figure out what you need and want from a MTB. But there are two things that annoys me; 1. The XR3 tires are not that good in wet forest conditions, they clog up and lose grip very easily. Will at least swap the back tire out in a near future. 2. The seatpost clamp IS NOT STANDARD SIZE. It's something like 32mm, not the fairly common standard 31.8, which makes it quite hard to find a quick release clamp in physical stores. This is quite shitty of Trek to do. It seems like you have to order one off of their site through a retailer.

[@paoloajero]

How about X Caliber 9 vs Pro Caliber 6 comparison next

[@TalalipopMTB]

Sure! I'll look into that soon.

[@mieczysawkowalski3761]

Rockrider XC500 same price X-Caliber 8 and have Reba

[@thomashardbattle4287]

All ex cals are cool beginner bikes

[@sulleysaad3266]

Any word on the 2021 fuel ex 5 updates !?!

[@TalalipopMTB]

I’ve been seeing pictures and some videos of the bikes but no specifications from Trek yet.

[@samuelrichards3340]

Is the x caliber 7 strong for wheelies

[@samuelrichards3340]

Hey am five fool 9 176 cm should I get large in trek x caliber 7

[@nipahaus6206]

Is there possibility that trek aluminum frame makes a true axel on there x caliber and roscoe?

[@dalec.5681]

I believe hope makes one

[@jtmon3y22]

Nice vid! What made the x caliber 8 1lb heavier?

[@TalalipopMTB]

It's a combination of a lot of different parts probably, but I know the SX Eagle drivetrain on the x-caliber 8 is definitely heavier than the other drivetrains; not by a whole pound, but there are probably some other differences as well, or perhaps just some discrepancies in weighing the bikes.

[@jtmon3y22]

Talalipop MTB okay thanks for clarifying!

[@twosix_00]

Which Transmission do you consider to be the best and why? A Deore 1x12 with a Deore XT derailleur or a SRAM Eagle SX? Which is better to go faster on the flat?

[@TalalipopMTB]

The Deore XT is a higher level group set than the SRAM SX so definitely the Deore in my opinion. It is up to personal preference a bit of course and in terms of speed i’m not too sure how different they’d be; there’s just a different feel to the shifting and I have heard people say shimano shifts smoother and faster.

[@twosix_00]

@@TalalipopMTB Only the rear derailleur is Deore XT, all other components are Deore M6100.

[@TalalipopMTB]

I’d say that’s still an upgrade over the SRAM since the SX uses only SX parts. If it had something like a GX derailleur paired with it then it would be a harder decision but I think the shimano is better.

[@taviskaczanowski3924]

What is the widest 29 tire I could put on my Xcaliber?

[@GREATVOVA]

2.4" as trek says.

[@BlackMan614]

I have an x-cal 8 2019 model. Should the wheels be upgraded first?

[@TalalipopMTB]

I always personally feel like the tires are a good first upgrade, since they definitely change the feel of the bike, especially since they are probably a bit worn if the bike is a 2019 model.

[@TalalipopMTB]

If not that then grips and pedals especially would help a good amount as well.

[@BlackMan614]

@@TalalipopMTB I did tires, grips, pedals at the bike store when I bought it. The tires that came with the bike were not true MTB tires.Thanks!!

[@Sjorezz]

so is it possible to put a 10-52 (or 10-51 ) sram cassette on the X-caliber 8 ? or can you only use the 11-50?

[@arthurak8903]

You cannot, you would need a new hub driver, the XD

[@Sjorezz]

@@arthurak8903 thx Arthur... in that case ill go for GX

[@samuelrichards3340]

Or should I go with vitus sentier 29

[@matthewlayman5815]

I've never had a really good mountain bike but have been riding one since I was 9. Was ready to pull the trigger on the 9 but the color is holding me back. Someone talk me into it!!

[@GREATVOVA]

I am in the opposite situation. I'm in love with x-caliber 9 color, but I only need x-caliber's 7 power. Don't want to overpay for features that i won't use.

[@matthewlayman5815]

Update: I did by the 9 and the color grew on me and now I love it!

[@Sidestrain101]

We have the same problem. Im ready to pull the trigger for a 9 but the teal colorway is holding me back. How's your experience with it so far? Im now leaning toward the 8 due to its fire red color.

[@GREATVOVA]

@@Sidestrain101 I'm from Ukraine and this bike is in colors of our flag. That's why I like it so much. And also it looks cool and uncommon. If your other bikes are gray, black or other dark color then this awesome two-colored bike will fit into your collection.

[@Sidestrain101]

@@GREATVOVA hey good way to look at it. As I am a big fan of Vasyl Lomachenko! I already ordered the 9. Looking forwardbto ride it as the unit arrives around 3-4 weeks from now. Cheers!

[@Alex-ye6wn]

Just saying guys the 8 is sick

[@FinWallman]

I'm 13 and I'm not sure if I should get a trek marlin 7 2021 at the moment I have a marlin 7 2019. Do you think it's worth upgrading?

[@stevenbrideau3741]

Not really worth the upgrade yet tbh.

[@TalalipopMTB]

I think the 2021 bike is definitely a good upgrade, since a lot of the parts have been updated to be a lot better for the trail. I would prefer the 2021 model for sure if I had to pick one of the two, but in terms of switching out your current bike for the new one, I feel like it's mainly up to your budget and how you feel on your bike. The main components of the bike, like the suspension fork, drivetrain, and brakes have all been upgraded to better ones for 2021. If you feel like your Marlin 7 isn't handling the trails as well as you'd like, then you should upgrade, but if you're tight on budget or think your bike has been doing fine on trail then I'd say keep it.

[@FinWallman]

@@TalalipopMTB thanks so much 👍

[@xx-----------xx873]

Don’t bother. Put your money towards a Roscoe or a proper full suspension.

[@harrybryson1130]

I’m 13 and have a 2019 Marlin 5, I’m saving up to buy a Roscoe 7/8 next year or something. Don’t think I would upgrade your bike to another marlin, just save up for a Roscoe like me, then move on to a Fuel Ex or something similar after that

[@andreshadjez2674]

Does anyone know if the X Caliber frame geometry has changed since 2020 to present?

[@TalalipopMTB]

It has not changed since 2020

[@hughjanus3512]

Can anyone tell me if it is worth the price difference to go with the Xcaliber 8 over the Xcaliber 7?

[@gmaxiegundran1758]

Get the x7 , you will upgrade the drive train soon , the same as x8

[@samuelrichards3340]

I think the brakes might get a bit rusty

[@YogiBadhani]

Which one is the best Value for money X-Caliber?

[@SebastianSas88]

I say 7. if you want something better, get the 9. The 8 doesn't justify because the price difference is marginal.

[@benzkyjavien3169]

can i transfer my SLX 1 x 11 speed DRIVE TRAIN to excaliber 7??

[@gmaxiegundran1758]

Yes you can

[@samidochimoc9661]

Is xc 9 also good for cross country?

[@TalalipopMTB]

It’s intended for cross country and is the best in the range so definitely!

[@juventinovazquez9408]

Am I the only one that likes the xcaliber 9's color?

[@terrymckee6742]

What materiel are the wheels made of?

[@PaulSmith-ze7jw]

Rubber?

[@terrymckee6742]

@@PaulSmith-ze7jw Wheels not tires!

[@srmlive_]

Lmao

[@CookePro]

for the same price what is better ? X-Caliber 7 2021 vs X-Caliber 2020

[@TalalipopMTB]

I made a full video about that on my channel, but the 2021 would be better since it has some upgraded components.

[@CookePro]

@@TalalipopMTB sorry i mean x-caliber 7 2021 vs x-caliber 8 2020

[@TalalipopMTB]

@@CookePro There aren't too many differences, but I think I'd prefer the X-Caliber 8 because it has a 1x12 drivetrain instead of the 1x10. Besides that they're pretty much the same, though the 8 also has slightly grippier tires.

[@CookePro]

@@TalalipopMTB thanks, i will buy x-caliber 8 2020

[@ezboah7183]

is 1 by faster than 3 by or its the same?

[@TalalipopMTB]

It depends on the specific gear ratios you have, but I personally feel like you don't lose much at all if you're riding trails on these bikes. If you're going to be in flat areas and on the road more often, then it maybe be more noticeable that you lost certain speeds and you might feel that you do not have the perfect speed that is both comfortable and fast enough. However, on the trail this simplification in my opinion will make you faster since you worry less about which front chain ring and rear cog you are in, since you only have to worry about the rear.

[@MaQuGo119]

Is there a way to put a 38 teeth chainring?

[@SharonD369]

I’ve put a 34T chainring on my Cannondale, you can’t go higher due to the shape of the chain stay. I think the Trek has a shaped chain stay, the 38T may be to large in diameter. 🤘

[@nfcknblvbl4759]

Is there someone who has the x 9 darkblue ?

[@lucasmtz3849]

Well x caliber 8 it is then. Thank you 🙏

[@vicentesalinas8259]

Why not the 9?

[@toddsamjr7454]

@@vicentesalinas8259 well the 9 is a bit more money

[@toddsamjr7454]

@@vicentesalinas8259 plus 8 has pretty much everything the line has to offer.

[@bartvandenbrink2701]

Hows the sx eagle

[@gerda7056]

Are pedals included when you get one?

[@TalalipopMTB]

Yes!

[@gerda7056]

@@TalalipopMTB also with a x claliber9?

[@TalalipopMTB]

I believe all bikes come with the nylon pedals, especially if you get them from a local bike shop. Let me check the x caliber again though.

[@TalalipopMTB]

I noticed on the Trek website it does say it comes with pedals, although the pictures do not show any. I would assume it does come with the same nylon pedals as the other bikes though!

[@gerda7056]

Talalipop MTB thanks man, i think ill just ask my local bike shop. Thanks for taking your time to look it up.

[@jameskatz3747]

2.2 inch tires are so small😂😂 awesome video tho

[@stevenbrideau3741]

Not for racing

[@onthesiderc429]

So what do you ride?

[@TalalipopMTB]

I ride a marlin 5 currently :) but hoping to get some higher end bikes soon if they come in stock.

[@onthesiderc429]

Talalipop MTB cool beans

[@onthesiderc429]

Talalipop MTB great video by the way

[@TalalipopMTB]

Thank you!

[@nicodelcarpio2047]

You made a little mistake, Xcaliber 9 has a drivetrain combined xt/slx

[@TalalipopMTB]

Oh right! I forgot about some of the XT parts when I spoke there and made the table I guess haha.

[@Jerecek]

So does the X-Caliber 7 really has a Rock Shox Judy? It looks different from 8 and 9 - because of Maxle Lite? Trek mentions on website in a text “you get a Rock Shox 30 Silver” :/ So not sure now and bikes are not at stores yet to check.

[@TalalipopMTB]

The 2021 X-Caliber 7 has a Judy, but the 2020 model had the 30 silver. I noticed that text as well but I believe it is just a mistake, and the 2021 model should have the Judy.

[@Jerecek]

Talalipop MTB Thanks man! So the different look of the fork on the photos is probably caused by using Maxle Lite solution on Xcal 8 and 9, right?

[@TalalipopMTB]

I would assume so, but i’m not too sure about different rockshox designs. Sometimes the pictures aren’t entirely accurate since the bikes aren’t out yet, but I would assume the new bike comes with the Judy either way since it’s listed in the actual specifications.

[@geetabisht3898]

X calibre 8 is heavier because other two bikes have hollow bottom bracket

[@jeanchernandezrodriguez9890]

Trek vs. Jamis? anyone?