Trek Slash 9.7 Gen 5

The "Slash 9.7 Gen 5" model from Trek, released in 2023, is a high-quality mountain bike designed for challenging trails and descents. Priced at 3,999 EUR, it offers a wide range of technical features and components that ensure both performance and durability.

The bike’s frame consists of a main frame and stays made from OCLV Mountain Carbon and features an internal storage compartment. The design incorporates a tapered head tube, Knock Block 2.0 and an internal Control Freak cable routing system. Additionally, Carbon Armor and a Shuttle-Guard provide extra protection. The bike is fitted with a threaded bottom bracket, ISCG 05 mounts and a 34.9 mm seat tube. The magnesium link lever, Mino Link and the ABP system contribute to the frame’s stability and flexibility. The maximum load capacity is 136 kg, whilst the bike itself weighs just 14 kg.

The brakes consist of SRAM DB 8 hydraulic 4-piston disc brakes with CentreLine discs, which feature a 6-hole disc mount and rounded edges. Both the front and rear brakes are fitted with 180 mm discs.

The gear system comprises the Shimano SLX M7100 shifter and the matching 12-speed cassette with a range of 10–51 teeth. The fork is a Fox Rhythm 36 with Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damping and 170 mm of travel.

The handlebars are Bontrager Line aluminium bars, 820 mm wide with a 27.5 mm rise. The grips are Bontrager XR Trail Pro with aluminium clamps. The stem is also from Bontrager and has a length of 35 mm with a 0-degree angle.

The tyres are Bontrager XR5 Team Issue in size 29 x 2.50, fitted to a Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheelset. This wheelset is Tubeless Ready and features a Rapid Drive 54 hub and a 6-hole disc mount.

The saddle is a Bontrager Arvada with CrMo rails and a width of 138 mm. The seatpost is a TranzX JD-YSP39 with a 150 mm travel and internal cable routing.

The bike’s geometry comprises a reach of 45 mm, a stack of 62 mm, a seat tube length of 42 mm and a top tube length of 61 mm. The head tube angle is 64 degrees, whilst the seat tube angle is 67 degrees. The head tube length is 10 mm, the chainstay length is 44 mm and the standover height is 74 mm. The bike’s total wheelbase is 122 mm.

In summary, the Trek Slash 9.7 Gen 5 is a robust and versatile mountain bike that impresses with its high-quality components and well-thought-out design. It is ideal for riders looking for a reliable bike for challenging trails.