I just purchased a used 2009 Fuel EX 7 and was wondering if there is anything I should consider upgrading? My budget is 1000-1200. I know that is probably a lot to put in a used bike but I got a good deal on it and figured i'd put some money in it to make it more comparable to the 2012 model EX bikes. Thanks

Ride it first. If you need to ask what to upgrade, I'd say nothing needs to be upgraded and you just have money burning a hole in your pocket (in which case you can send it to me ). If you ride it and something isn't up to your standards, then you have your answer...upgrade that.

I think you should upgrade anything you can afford. Then send all your old crap to me.



As Zeph said, why upgrade anything? What part of your bike is not delivering the ride you expected? I'm finding more and more that the trickle-down effect has negated the "need" for XT over SLX and the like. I used to upgrade my crankset right out of the gate, but even the bottom-feeder Deore is an external BB design that won't flex the chain into the FD cage. Problem solved. Now you can have a killer bike for much cheaper.


Enjoy the Fuel.

Looking at the factory spec, nothing is shouting out to be upgraded, as with others, keep as is, until you need to replace parts through wear.

The only thinks which look dated on the bike are the handlebar, at 650mm, they are narrow for a current bike, and the stem looks long as well.

Would be keeping the 1000-1200 back in case you need a new frame, a lot of guys I ride with have had bikes from the fuel series, and are now on there 2nd/3rd frame, all bought from new so have had these covered under warranty, you won't have this luxury as you got it 2nd hand.

If it were my bike I'd get a lighter wheel set and go tubeless as well as a lighter crank, cassette, and chain. Depending on your wheel set of choice that'll take up most of your budget but less rotational weight will be a noticeable difference.