Trek Slash 9.8 XT Gen 5

The 2022 Trek Slash 9.8 XT Gen 5 is a state-of-the-art mountain bike designed for challenging trails and aggressive descents. Priced at 6,599 EUR, it offers an impressive combination of advanced technology and robust components.

The Slash 9.8 XT’s frame is constructed from OCLV Mountain Carbon, used in both the main frame and the seat stays. It features an internal storage compartment and an internal Control Freak cable routing system, which ensures a clean look and protects the cables. Other frame features include a tapered head tube, the Knock Block 2.0, Carbon Armour, Shuttle-Guard and a threaded bottom bracket. The magnesium derailleur hanger, the Mino Link system and the ABP (Active Braking Pivot) contribute to the bike’s stable and adjustable geometry.

The bike’s maximum load capacity is 136 kg, whilst the bike itself weighs 14 kg. The front and rear Shimano XT 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in all conditions. The RockShox ZEB Select+ fork, with 170 mm of travel and DebonAir suspension, offers excellent shock absorption and control on challenging trails.

The drivetrain is controlled by a Shimano XT M8100, 12-speed rear derailleur and shift levers, paired with a Shimano XT M8120 crankset with a 30-tooth chainring and a Shimano XT M8100 cassette with 10–51 teeth. This combination enables precise and smooth gear changes.

Additional comfort and control are provided by the Bontrager Line Pro handlebars, made from OCLV carbon with a width of 820 mm and a rise of 27.5 mm, as well as the Bontrager XR Trail Pro grips with aluminium clamps. The Bontrager Line Pro stem is Blendr-compatible and features a Knock Block function for added safety.

The Bontrager SE6 tyres at the front and SE5 tyres at the rear, sized 29 x 2.50, offer excellent grip and stability on a variety of surfaces. The Bontrager Line Elite 30 wheelset, made from OCLV Mountain Carbon, is tubeless-ready and features a Rapid Drive 108 hub for rapid acceleration.

The Bontrager Arvada saddle, with austenitic struts and a width of 138 mm, and the Bontrager Line Elite dropper seatpost with 150 mm of travel and internal cable routing offer additional comfort and customisation options.

The geometry of the Slash 9.8 XT Gen 5 comprises a reach of 47 mm, a stack of 63 mm, a seat tube length of 44 mm, a top tube length of 63 mm, a head tube angle of 64 degrees, a seat tube angle of 67 degrees, a head tube length of 10 mm, a chainstay length of 44 mm, a standover height of 74 mm and a wheelbase of 124 mm.

In summary, the Trek Slash 9.8 XT Gen 5 is a high-performance mountain bike that stands out for its high-quality components and advanced technology, making it ideal for riders looking for a reliable and versatile bike for challenging trails.