Trek Slash 9.8 GX Gen 5

The 2022 “Slash 9.8 GX Gen 5” model from Trek is a state-of-the-art mountain bike that stands out for its advanced features and high-quality build. Priced at 7,199 EUR, it belongs to the top tier of trail bikes and offers numerous technical features designed for demanding riders.

The frame of the Slash 9.8 GX Gen 5 is made from OCLV Mountain Carbon for the main frame and seat stays, ensuring high stability and low weight. The frame features an internal storage compartment, a tapered head tube and the Knock Block 2.0 system, which limits steering angle and thus protects the frame. Further features include the internal Control Freak cable routing, Carbon Armor, Shuttle-Guard, a threaded bottom bracket, ISCG 05 mounts, a 34.9 mm seat tube, a magnesium lever, as well as the Mino Link system for geometry adjustment and the ABP (Active Braking Pivot) system.

The bike’s maximum load capacity is 136 kg, whilst it weighs 14 kg. Optimal braking performance is provided by front and rear SRAM Code R hydraulic 4-piston disc brakes with 180 mm SRAM CenterLine discs, which feature a 6-hole disc mount and rounded edges.

Gear changes are handled by the SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, which enables precise and reliable shifting. The RockShox ZEB Select+ fork, featuring DebonAir suspension, Charger 2.1 RC damping and 170 mm of travel, delivers outstanding damping and control on challenging trails.

The crankset consists of the SRAM GX Eagle with a 30-tooth chainring and a chainline of 55 mm. The cassette is a SRAM Eagle XG-1275 with a range of 10–52 teeth. The handlebars are Bontrager Line Pro made from OCLV carbon, with a width of 820 mm and a rise of 27.5 mm, whilst the grips are Bontrager XR Trail Pro with aluminium clamps.

The stem is a Bontrager Line Pro with Knock Block and Blendr compatibility, whilst the headset is integrated and also utilises the Knock Block 2.0 system. The tyres are Bontrager SE6 at the front and SE5 at the rear, both in size 29 x 2.50. The wheelset consists of Bontrager Line Elite 30 OCLV Mountain Carbon rims, which are tubeless-ready and feature a Rapid Drive hub.

The saddle is a Bontrager Arvada with austenitic struts and a width of 138 mm. The seatpost is a Bontrager Line Elite Dropper with 170 mm of travel and internal cable routing.

The bike’s packaging dimensions are 23 mm wide, 119 mm high and 201 mm long. The frame geometry comprises a reach of 49 mm, a stack of 64 mm, a seat tube length of 45 mm, a top tube length of 65 mm, a head tube angle of 64 degrees, a seat tube angle of 67 degrees, a head tube length of 12 mm, a chainstay length of 44 mm, a standover height of 75 mm and a wheelbase of 126 mm.

In summary, the Trek Slash 9.8 GX Gen 5 is a high-performance and versatile mountain bike that is ideal for challenging trails and impresses with its high-quality components.