29ers are the faster enduro bikes, according to scene insiders. Twentyniners are said to be particularly advantageous in rough, rough terrain. Thanks to new standards such as Boost, the large wheels can also be integrated compactly and rigidly into modern enduro frames with long suspension travel.
For those who have already opted for 29-inch wheels, there is no way around the two bikes in this duel. The two big players are paying well for the new models launched for 2017 - at least the versions with top equipment. 8699 euros for the Enduro S-Works and 7499 euros for the Slash 9.9 are quite an announcement. The frames alone already cost 3499 and 3699 euros. As an alternative, Trek only offers one model for 5499 euros, while Specialized goes down to 3299 euros for the aluminium version with three further models. A 27.5-inch alternative or plus-size tyre compatibility is only available from Specialized.
In terms of geometry, the two top dogs have nothing in common. Parameters such as reach and stack are almost identical, and the chainstay length also varies by just one millimetre depending on the setting. The same applies to the bottom bracket height. However, there is one striking difference. The Trek has a noticeably slacker head angle (0.9 to 1.3 degrees less), which can be adjusted from a super slack 65 to a still very slack 65.4 degrees using the rocker switch. In combination with the large wheels, we favoured the steeper setting, which is completely sufficient even at high speeds, and in which the rear suspension also releases the most travel.
Thanks to the similar riding position, the two enduro bikes climb about equally well. When things get really steep, the Slash is supported by the Talas trump card with its lowerable fork. A total weight (without pedals) of 13.2 kilos for the Specialized and 13.4 kilos for the Trek are by no means record-breaking when measured against the price. When pedalling, the Trek rear suspension reacts a little more to the rider's input than the Specialized, but the switchable platform on the Fox Float X2 shock is more effective than the quick adjustment on the Specialized's Öhlins shock. Downhill is where the two bikes really come into their own. The smoothness and confidence that the two enduro bikes convey is inspiring and makes racers happy. However, neither bike is really playful. Due to the steering angle, but above all due to the more sensitive and fuller suspension, the Trek is even better in bumpy sections and keeps the Specialized at bay. Although the Öhlins suspension works at a high level, it can't hold a candle to the Fox suspension elements, which literally keep the tyres glued to the ground. On the other hand, the Specialized gives more feedback and rides a little more lively.
CONCLUSION Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager:
Both bikes are top-class enduro bikes. There are only a few differences in terms of geometry. However, the Trek is more uncompromising and extremely smoothly trimmed for racing, while the Specialized is somewhat more wide-ranging. The suspension makes the biggest difference. Öhlins doesn't quite perform on a par with Fox, which is why the Trek wins the practical evaluation. However, thanks to details such as the Swat, warranty performance and spec, the points clearly go to Specialized.
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THE TEST RESULTS
SPECIALIZED S-Works Enduro 29
You have to look closely to recognise what has changed compared to its predecessor. Despite the integration of the Swat storage space in the down tube, the Enduro retains its typical frame shape. A lot has changed in the details. Thanks to the Boost standard, the tyre clearance has been increased and the suspension travel has been increased by eight millimetres. Nevertheless, the chainstays on the new Enduro have been lengthened by two millimetres. The geometry of the Enduro has also been updated. The steering angle has been slackened by one degree, the bottom bracket has been lowered by five millimetres and the reach has been increased by nine millimetres. The head tube has been significantly shortened for more pressure on the front wheel. Overall, this makes the new enduro bike a little racier and gives it more confidence when the going gets tough. However, it is no longer as manoeuvrable and playful as the old Enduro and requires more effort to be pulled onto the rear wheel. The rear triangle, made of carbon for the first time, saves 200 grams. The setup of the Öhlins fork could be lighter.
TREK Slash 9.9
The predecessor of the Slash rolled on 27.5-inch wheels without exception and had the lightest enduro carbon frame we have ever measured. For 2017, the Slash is only available as a 29er. Even if the frame weight no longer breaks any records, the full carbon chassis weighs a good 200 grams less than the Specialized frame. Trek takes no prisoners when it comes to geometry and consistently fulfils racers' wishes for a smooth ride and a long reach. In combination with the 29er wheels, the steering angle of 65 degrees ensures maximum safety on high-speed bumpy sections. At slow speeds, however, the steering becomes wobbly, which is why we favoured the steeper position of the geo adjustment. At 7499 euros, you have to dig deep into your pockets for the top model. However, carbon wheels are not yet available. The lowered fork helps when climbing, but increases the weight. A ready-to-ride weight of 13.77 kilos is rather solid in this price range. Conclusion: fast racer instead of playful trail predator.
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