Trek 3700: Gears and Brakes Explained

Unveiling the Trek 3700: A Look at its Gears and Brakes

The Trek 3700, though no longer in production, remains a popular choice for those seeking an affordable yet capable mountain bike, particularly for beginner and intermediate riders. Its blend of a lightweight Alpha aluminum frame, hardtail design, and well-chosen components makes it a solid contender for trail adventures. Central to its performance and safety are its gearing and braking systems, which we will delve into in detail. Understanding these components can help you appreciate the bike's capabilities and potential for upgrades, even on the second-hand market.

Gearing System: Smooth Shifting for Varied Terrains

The Trek 3700 typically features a reliable Shimano drivetrain, designed to offer a good range of gears for tackling various inclines and terrains. The specific configuration can vary slightly depending on the model year, but common setups include an 8-speed Shimano rear derailleur and a front derailleur, often from the Shimano Altus M310 or M280 series. This combination usually results in a 3x7 (21-speed) or sometimes a 3x8 (24-speed) drivetrain. Such a setup provides riders with ample gear options, making climbs more manageable and descents controlled.

The shifters, often Shimano C051, are designed for intuitive operation. This means that changing gears is straightforward, allowing riders to focus on the trail rather than fumbling with complex controls. The presence of a Shimano M131 chainguard is a thoughtful addition, protecting the chain from debris and preventing it from dropping, which is crucial for maintaining momentum and avoiding mechanical issues during a ride.

While the Altus components are generally considered entry-level, they offer a good balance of durability and performance for their price point. For riders looking to enhance their experience, the Trek 3700's drivetrain is also relatively easy to upgrade to higher-spec Shimano components should the need arise.

Key Gear Components of the Trek 3700:

Braking System: Confident Stopping Power

Stopping power is paramount for any bicycle, especially a mountain bike that will encounter varying conditions. The Trek 3700 is equipped with a braking system that prioritises rider confidence and control. While some earlier models might have featured rim brakes, many later versions, such as the 2015 Trek 3700 Disc, were fitted with powerful hydraulic disc brakes, typically from Tektro (e.g., the Tektro M290).

Hydraulic disc brakes offer several advantages over traditional rim brakes. They provide superior stopping power, meaning less force is required at the lever for more effective braking. This is particularly beneficial on descents or in wet and muddy conditions, where rim brakes can lose significant effectiveness. The modulation is also generally better, allowing for finer control over braking intensity.

The inclusion of disc brakes, whether mechanical or hydraulic, adds to the versatility of the Trek 3700, making it more capable on challenging trails. The stopping power is consistent, reliable, and less affected by adverse weather. For riders who plan to ride in varied conditions or downhill, the disc brake setup is a significant advantage. The Bontrager LT3 tires also complement the braking system by offering excellent grip, ensuring that the braking force is effectively translated into stopping the wheels.

Brake Types on the Trek 3700:

• Rim Brakes: Found on some earlier models, these work by applying pressure to the wheel rim. They are simpler but less effective in wet conditions.
• Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Common on later models, these offer superior stopping power, modulation, and performance in all weather conditions.

Ride Quality and Component Synergy

The synergy between the gears and brakes, along with other components like the Alpha Silver Aluminum frame and the front suspension fork, contributes to the Trek 3700's overall ride quality. The Alpha Silver Aluminum frame is lightweight and durable, providing a sturdy platform for the components. The hardtail design, coupled with a front suspension fork offering around 100mm of travel, aims to absorb impacts from the trail, enhancing comfort and control. While the fork's coil suspension adds a bit of weight, it's a trade-off for a smoother ride, especially for beginners.

The Bontrager LT3 tires, typically sized at 26x2.0 inches, are well-suited for a mix of terrain, offering good grip on trails and rolling efficiently on smoother surfaces. The 26-inch wheel size contributes to the bike's agility and quicker acceleration, which can be beneficial in tighter, more technical sections of a trail.

While the saddle might be a point of contention for some, being described as stiff, this is a common area for personal preference and is easily addressed with an aftermarket saddle upgrade. The handlebars and stem, often from Bontrager, are designed to provide a comfortable and controlled riding position, with a robust build that can withstand trail use.

Frequently Asked Questions about Trek 3700 Gears and Brakes

What type of gears does the Trek 3700 have?

The Trek 3700 typically features a Shimano 3x7 (21-speed) or 3x8 (24-speed) drivetrain, with components like Shimano Altus derailleurs and Shimano C051 shifters.

Does the Trek 3700 have disc brakes?

Many later models of the Trek 3700, particularly those designated as 'Disc', are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, often Tektro M290. However, some earlier models may have rim brakes.

Are the gears on the Trek 3700 reliable?

Yes, Shimano components are generally known for their reliability, especially for entry-level mountain biking. With proper maintenance, the gears on the Trek 3700 should provide smooth and dependable shifting.

Are hydraulic disc brakes better than rim brakes on the Trek 3700?

For most trail riding scenarios, hydraulic disc brakes offer significantly better stopping power, modulation, and performance, especially in wet or muddy conditions. They are generally considered an upgrade over rim brakes.

Can I upgrade the gears and brakes on a Trek 3700?

Yes, the Trek 3700 is a versatile platform that allows for component upgrades. You could upgrade to a higher-spec Shimano drivetrain or replace existing brakes with more powerful options if compatibility allows.

Conclusion: A Capable Package for its Time

The Trek 3700, with its well-chosen Shimano gears and effective braking systems (especially the hydraulic disc brakes on later models), offered a compelling package for its era. It provided riders with the necessary range and stopping power to explore trails confidently. While it's a discontinued model, understanding its specifications, particularly its gearing and braking capabilities, highlights its value as a solid foundation for beginner mountain bikers or as a project bike for those looking to customize and upgrade. Its robust build and reliable components make it a worthwhile consideration on the used market for anyone seeking an affordable entry into the world of mountain biking.

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