marne44

At the time I bought the bike the 18.5" wasn't available yet. So went with 17.5". Had to get a longer stem + offset seat-post.

Also, I think the Top Fuel looks nicer

Hi everyone! After a few messages I received relating this topic I thought I will give an update on why I got the bike I chose. I received the opportunity to take both the Top Fuel 9.8 and Blur S Build for a test ride on the same day on the exact same route. The route was about 10km and consisted of a 2km climb with 190m ascent and a fast and flowing singletrack descent. I first took the Blur for the test ride. The bike climbed well and descended even better. The biggest impression it made was down the singletrack. Next was the Top Fuel. I thought the bike climbed better than the blur (the blur was great). The descent was slightly less controlled, but more fun. Decision: After riding both bikes I realised both are really excellent. Coming from an aggressive hardtail onto these bikes, the Top Fuel felt more at home while climbing. The Blur was good uphill, but the Top Fuel just felt faster. On the descents, the Blur felt so controlled/comfortable that I thought it was too easy. The Blur was quicker down, but the Top Fuel just felt more exciting and on the edge. The Top Fuel is a very nippy bike that made me enjoy the descent more than on the Blur. Based on this experience I went for the Top Fuel. At the end of the day it all comes down to personal preference. I have ridden my Top Fuel now for two months and haven't looked back.

Hi Chris! Thanks for your response. Can I assume you have a top fuel 9.8?

Hi Brett! Thanks for your response. Do you have a Blur?

Hi everyone! I'm in the process of replacing my bike and I am completely stuck with a decision between the Trek Top Fuel 9.8 and the Santa Cruz Blur S build. They are very similarly priced, weigh almost exactly the same (websites) and have very similar components. The Trek has carbon wheels, handlebar and seat-post, but an alu chainstay. The Santa has a complete carbon frame, but alu wheels, handlebar and seat-post. Any advice, suggestions or feedback regarding the bikes would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.