The Slide embodies Radon's philosophy of a modern full-suspension touring bike with a wide range of uses. Radon wants to expand this even further in 2017 with the Slide+. The plus tyres are designed to provide more safety and traction without restricting the classic touring rider. Already with the BIKE Festival at Lake Garda we had reported on a first prototype. But now series production of the Radon Fullys is in the starting blocks.
In order to achieve the optimum balance between weight and stiffness, the Radon developers have orientated themselves on the frames of their freeride (Swoop) and trail bikes (Skeen 120). As a result, the new Slide Plus is recognisable as a Radon at first glance and yet, thanks to a different rocker and shock mount, should have a completely independent character. According to Radon, the frame weight has been kept at the same level as the Slide 150 (approx. 3 kg with shock).
Although the wide tyres have the same outer diameter as 29-inch tyres, suspension guru Bodo Probst adapted the rear triangle to the thick rollers due to their strong inherent suspension: He shortened the suspension travel to 130 millimetres and changed the characteristic curve. This should now first be degressive for a sensitive response behaviour, then linear and progressive towards the end of the suspension travel for more bottoming out protection. In addition, the rear suspension should be very drive-neutral when pedalling.
As the Slide+ was developed as a fun bike, Radon also had to adapt the geometry. In order to build a bike that is as agile as possible, the reach - contrary to the trend - is not particularly long at 444 millimetres at frame height 20 inches. The chainstays have also been kept short at 438 millimetres. A slack head angle (67.6 degrees) should ensure control and a steep seat angle (74.5 degrees) for good climbing characteristics.
In addition to the Boost standard, which is obligatory for a Plus bike, the Slide Plus also has a preparation for a down-swing derailleur. All Slide Plus frames also have internally routed cables, both for the gears and the seat post. There is space for a bottle cage in the frame triangle.
From December 2016, two models of the Radon Slide+ will be available to order: one for 2599 and the other for 2999 euros. In addition to lightweight DT Swiss wheels with an internal width of 40 mm, the bikes come with either Rock Shox or Fox suspension. One model has a 1x11 Sram gear system, the other has 22 gears from Shimano. Both Slide Plus models roll on Schwalbes Nobby Nic tyres and are completed with Race Face components.
