Trek dual sport bikes are all about versatility, physical strength, and comfort, and no bikes exemplify that more than Trek Dual Sport 2 and Trek Dual Sport 3. But when comparing Trek Dual Sport 2 vs 3, what’s better?
Trek Dual Sport 3 comes with upgraded specs and is generally lighter than Trek Dual Sport 2. In addition, Dual Sport 3 features a 1×10 drivetrain and Presta valve, while Dual Sport 2 features a 2×9 drivetrain and Schrader valve.
Remember, Trek Dual Sport 2 precedes Trek Dual Sport 3. So, expectedly Trek 3 has more upgraded components and weighs less. That also means it costs much more than its predecessor.
That aside, these two bikes have so much in common, ranging from their alpha gold aluminum frame to their all-terrain hydraulic disc brakes. I’ll share more later in this post.
To note that I’ll be comparing 2022 versions of both bikes, which differ from older models in a few areas.
Let’s get into it!
Trek Dual Sport 2 vs 3 Table Overview
Here’s a table summary of the things that set Dual Sport 2 and 3 apart.
Dual Sport 3 (2022 Model) | Dual Sport 3 (2022 | |
Price | $789.99 | $979.99 |
Weight | 29.15 pounds | 28.68 pounds |
Components Quality | Most are standard quality | Better quality components |
Drivetrain | 2×9 drivetrain | 1×10 drivetrain |
Gearing | 18 speed | 10 speed |
Valve Type | Schrader valve | Presta valve |
Trek Dual Sport 2 vs 3 Review – The Differences Discussed!
Here’s how the two hybrids compare:
1. Trek Dual Sport 3 vs 2 Weight
Trek Dual Sport 2 weighs 29.15 pounds, while Dual Sport 3 weighs 28.68 pounds. The difference in weight makes Dual Sport 3 lighter than Dual Sport 2. As a result, you will likely find Dual Sport 3 more comfortable to ride and move around than Dual Sport 3.
2. Trek Dual Sport 2 V 3 Components Quality
Usually, each newer Trek Dual Sport generation betters the one before it in components quality. In that case, while Trek Dual Sport 2 has standard components, Trek Dual 3 offers you better quality options.
Note, however, that Trek 2 is not at the top of the chain. There’s Trek Dual Sport 4, which comes with the best-overall specs. But in as far as Trek Dual Sport 2 and 3 are concerned, the former enjoys better quality specs than the former.
Their groupsets, in particular, are slightly more high-end, while Trek Dual Sport 2 only promises standard parts, which makes it more affordable.
3. Trek Dual Sport 2 vs Trek Dual Sport 3 Groupset
Trek Dual Sport 4 comes with a 1X10 Shimano drivetrain and 10-speed shifters to shift on different terrains smoothly. Their chain is also a 10-speed KMC chain, encouraging you to move smoothly.
On the other hand, Trek Dual Sport 2 comes with a 2×9 drivetrain, 9-speed KMC chain, and 18-speed shifters to offer you a wide gear range. That also allows you to shift smoothly, depending on the nature of the terrains.
4. Trek Dual Sport 2 Versus 3 Valve Type
Dual Sport 2 generally features a Schrader valve, while Dual Sport 3 comes with a Presto valve. Presta valves are more comfortable to pump, while Schrader valves are more robust.
5. Trek Dual Sport 2 vs Verve 3 Cost
Due to its slight advantage in components quality and weight, Trek Dual Sport 3 costs slightly more than Trek Dual Sport 2. In that case, while Dual Sport 3 costs $789.99, Dual Sport 2 costs $979.99.
Overall, while Trek Dual Sport 2 costs more, it doesn’t go past the $1000 mark. That makes it a budget-friendly, high-quality hybrid bike.
Mark you, all these prices are the time of creating the article. So, they are subject to change, depending on the manufacturer and retailer.
Trek Dual Sport 2 vs 3 Comparison: Similarities
There is no denying that these two bikes are different in quality and performance. You also cannot deny that they have many features in common. That includes the following:
a) Wheel and Tire
Both bikes come with 700c wheels, the same wheel size as you find on road bikes. The wheels can accommodate 700x35c tires while offering you an allowance of fitting 700x45c tires. Thus they offer you massive tire clearance.
The other important note is that their rims are pretty strong, featuring 32 holes, and are generally tubeless-ready. That means you can switch to tubeless and start relishing their lightweight and puncture resistance advantages.
And while speaking of puncture resistance, these two bikes feature puncture-resistant tires. While they do not prevent flat, they slow it down, which means you may not even realize it when it happens.
b) Frame Material
Both hybrid bicycles feature an alpha gold aluminum frame, which promises strength and lighter weight. Alpha aluminum usually is more vital than aluminum alloy, which is why these bikes can hold up to 300 pounds.
Even better, alpha aluminum is lighter than alloy aluminum, making the hybrid bikes lighter. That explains why they all weigh under 30 pounds.
c) Suspension
Both Trek Dual Sport 2 and 3 come with an SR Suntour front fork suspension with 63mm travel. That’s enough travel to take on most bumps.
Meanwhile, their suspensions feature a lockout suspension system that prevents the suspension fork from wearing. Moreover, lockout suspension allows you to pedal efficiently, which is essential when going uphill.
d) Disc Brakes
Both hybrids come with hydraulic disc brakes, which promise several benefits. For one, hydraulic disc brakes are ever-reliable in all conditions. That means they are responsive in wet and dry conditions.
Also, hydraulic disc brakes self-adjust when wearing down, a phenomenon that sets them apart from mechanical disc brakes.
e) Technology
These two hybrid bikes are compatible with the DuoTrap S, a sensor that allows you to track your cycling stats wirelessly.
Furthermore, DuoTrap S allows you to pair the bike with your phone via Bluetooth, which lets you listen to music on the go. Note, however, that you purchase DuoTrap S (View on Amazon) separately. It doesn’t come with the bike.
f) Internal Cabling
The manufacturer employs an internal cabling design to hide the brake cables, giving the bikes a sleeker look. And since the bikes are sleek, they tend to be more aerodynamic, which is essential when riding against the wind.
Moreover, the internal cabling design saves the cables from wear as they are less exposed and don’t swing around.
g) Mounts
These two bikes are mount-ready. Their frames allow you to attach racks, kickstands, water cages, and fenders. That lets you convert them into your commuter or touring bike easily. And since they are more robust and hardy, they’ll serve the purpose.
h) Handlebar and Grips
The two bikes come with a 15mm low-rise handlebar that offers you a firmer hold of the bike and allows you to ride more upright. The handlebar is why these hybrid bikes have an upright body positioning that is usually comfortable for commuting.
The impressive bit is that the handlebars come with ergonomic grips that save you from hand soreness after long hours of cycling. They also come in handy when taking on obstacle-hit terrains.
i) Bike Stem
Trek employs Bontrager’s patented Blendr stem technology that enables you to attach clip gears onto the stem without snapping it out. That includes lights, bells, fitness trackers, among other gears.
j) Frame Size
These two dual sport cycles come in four different frame sizes (small, medium, large, and x-large) to suit riders who are between 5’5” (as it’s the case of the small frame) to 6’1”-6’5” (as it’s the case of extra-large frame).
k) Load Limit
Trek Dual Sport bicycles generally come with a 300-pound capacity, including these two. As a result, they accommodate huge guys, which is a plus even when you are not huge as you can haul some loads.
Trek Dual Sport 2 vs 3 Pros and Cons
Trek Dual Sport 2
Pros
- Fairly lightweight
- Inexpensive
- Wide gear range
- Mounts-ready
- Upright geometry
- Higher load limit
- DuoTrap compatible
Cons
- Not as high-end as Dual Sport 3
- Slightly weightier than Dual Sport 3
Trek Dual Sport 3
Pros
Trek Dual Sport 3 enjoys all the advantages of Dual Sport 2 plus the following:
- More high-end specs
- Lighter than Trek Sport 2
Cons
- Costlier than Trek Sport 2
People Also Ask
1. Are Trek Bikes Good Enough?
Trek bikes are good enough because Trek uses high-end components and unique technologies in all their bikes. These bikes come with carbon fiber or high-end alpha aluminum frames, which are durable and lightweight.
Trek also employs top-tier groupsets and other components, making the bikes good enough.
2. What Is the Speed of Dual Sport 2?
Trek Dual Sport 2 (2022 model) comes with an 18-speed drivetrain to offer you a wide gear range. That enables you to shift smoothly and confidently across varying terrains.
3. Why are Trek Dual Sports Bikes So Popular?
Trek Dual Sport bikes are popular primarily because of the brand name. Trek is known for making the most high-end bikes. These bikes come with quality parts and are generally lighter and more comfortable to ride. Moreover, they come in different types, ranging from Dual Sport 1 to Dual Sport 4, all promising different specs and experience levels.
4. How Much Does Trek Dual Sport 2 Weigh?
Trek Dual Sport 2 (2022 version) weighs 29.15 pounds.
5. What Sets Dual Sport 1 and 2 Apart?
The critical difference between Sport Dual 1 and 2 is their weight, specs quality, and price. Dual Sport 1 is cheaper but slightly heavier than Dual Sport 2. In terms of build quality, Dual Sport 2 promises better quality specs than Dual Sport 1.
Relevant:
Closing Thought on Trek Dual Sport 2 vs 3
Since Trek Dual Sport 2 and 3 have so much in common, it may be hard to set them apart. However, if you consider the weight and the quality of the specs, Trek Dual 3 is a better choice.
But if you only need a budget casual hybrid bike, then you can settle for the Trek Dual Sport 2. But overall, these bikes are high-performing hybrid bicycles that live up to the name quality.