With the Slide 130, Radon is putting a lightweight all-mountain bike on large wheels. For 3300 euros, the Bonn-based mail order company packs the maximum amount of equipment into the shopping trolley. In addition to the exclusive and expensive Sram XX1 groupset with only eleven gears, there is the lightweight Crossmax ST wheelset from Mavic and Kashima-coated suspension elements. On the first straight, the Slide really pulls away. This is less due to the 3003 gram frame (stiffness 68 Nm/°) and more due to the fact that Radon put their money's worth into the build and fitted easy-rolling Nobby Nics on top. The very high end spacer puts you a little high above the trail. For us, this means mounting a lower spacer ring and turning the stem downwards. After that, the riding position is perfect and you can put a lot of pressure on the front wheel.
With 453 mm chainstays and a long wheelbase, you can't expect playful handling. However, the Slide runs impressively smoothly even over rough gravel fields. The sensitive suspension, in combination with the large wheels, allows you to race over obstacles without any bumps. Things become more difficult in tight bends or fast turns. The Radon wants to be actively pushed into the bend. A slightly wider handlebar would be helpful here. The gear ratio with the 34 t chainring at the front is very suitable for setting the pace on undulating terrain. On steeper climbs, however, the cranks are difficult to manoeuvre over the dead centre. An energy-saving 30 or 32 t chainring would be better suited to the area of use.
Conclusion The décor of the Slide 130 may be a matter of taste. But for 3299 euros, you not only get absolute high-end equipment, but also a bike that impresses with its good propulsion and forgiving suspension, especially on fast routes.
PLUS Top equipment, good propulsion, comfortable seating position
MINUS not very playful, somewhat sluggish in curves
