Where does all-mountain end and enduro begin? As with the Cube Stereo 160, this question also arises with the Radon Slide Carbon. Of course, the Bonn-based mail order company also offers a flawless all-mountain with the Slide 150, but we found the Slide 160 more exciting: the carbon frame, weight and geometry fit the all-mountain mould. The suspension travel, stem length, chain guide and choice of tyres, on the other hand, speak in favour of enduro use. The fork is somewhere in between. But one thing is for sure: the Slide Carbon is an awesome bike! With an 80 mm stem and faster tyres, it would be one of the best all-mountain bikes. As delivered, it is the most versatile touring enduro bike. If you let it fly (literally) for a test lap on the Slide 160, you'll have to recalibrate your experience. The bike steers agilely, is secure, lands firmly and inhales the worst rock gardens - thanks to the tyres. Admittedly, the tyres make it a little sluggish on the climbs.
Conclusion: In our opinion, this is the future of the all-mountain-plus category. The Radon Slide is the reference downhill and also has a lot of potential uphill.
PLUS Top chassis, fork and geometry, super handling, noiseless chain guide, price/performance, versatility
MINUS Hard grips, narrow saddle, shifter cable too short (ghost shifting), rear wheel moderately spoked
The alternative
Fans of 29er wheels will find the Slide 130 29 9.0 SL a versatile, well-equipped partner. The bike costs 2799 euros and comes with an aluminium frame, Rock Shox suspension and Shimano XTR/XT.
