Trek Slash+ 2024: Pure enduro feeling despite the motor? Slash+ - the new light eMTB from Trek

It was almost exactly two years ago, that Trek and TQ Systems have once again redefined lightweight e-mountainbikes with the Fuel EXe. As the exclusive launch partner, the Americans were the first to the mini drive from Ammersee (tested here) were allowed to be installed in a bike. And although the HPR 50 has been criticised since then, one thing is clear: electric motors have never been so unobtrusive, quiet and direct.

After the Fuel EXe trail bike, Trek is now igniting a second evolutionary stage with the Slash+. In terms of geometry and kinematics (high-pivot!), the bike is just as tight as its predecessor. to the classic slash without motor (here in the test) like the Fuel EXe back in the day. However, with more suspension travel and more battery power, the Slash+ appeals to a different target group. Will the concept work? We provide an overview of everything that's important.

The Trek Slash+: The facts about the bike

• Motor: TQ HPR 50, 50 Nm max. torque
• Battery: 580 Wh (removable)
• Frame material: Carbon
• Suspension travel: 170 / 170 mm
• Wheel size: 29/27.5 inch (Mullet)
• Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Price: 7999 or 11999 euros
• Weight: from 20.38 kg (manufacturer's specification)
• Special features: Adjustable steering angle and rear triangle progression

Frame & geometry: Like the classic Slash

According to Trek, the Slash+ uses almost the same geometry as the classic Slash. This means that the head angle is slack (63.5 degrees) for maximum downhill smoothness, but can be adjusted by plus/minus one degree using the angled headset. The reach is around 480 millimetres in size L, the chainstays grow with the frame sizes and measure 435, 440 or 445 millimetres. In combination with a steep seat angle of 77 degrees, this results in a modern enduro geometry with a decent wheelbase.

Trek Slash+: Geometry at a glance (frame size L)

• Seat tube length: 435 mm
• Wheelbase: 1268 mm
• Reach: 479 mm
• Stack: 640 mm
• Steering angle: 63.4 degrees
• Seat angle: 77 degrees
• Chainstay length: 440 mm

The frame itself is made entirely of carbon, but the pulley and chain tensioner for the high-pivot rear triangle have been slightly adapted. The rear triangle progression can still be adjusted using a flip chip. This means that the rear end can also be combined with linear steel spring shocks. The most important difference to the Slash without motor: The Slash+ has no storage compartment in the down tube due to the battery and the intermediate size M/L is no longer available. An aluminium version of the bike is not in sight for the time being.

TQ motor & battery: e-bike without e-feel?

As with the Fuel EXe, Trek has also opted for the minimalist design of the lightweight E-Enduro Slash+. TQ HPR 50. the engine (tested here) is barely the size of a fist and is therefore hardly noticeable in the side line of the bike. It is also very quiet even under full load and does not rattle downhill. This should be a powerful argument, especially for enduro fans who only want to hear the whirring of tyres and suspension on downhills.

The downside of the super-low volume and compact design: In terms of top performance, the TQ has to admit defeat to other engines. Our engine test shows this. However, with 300 watts and 50 Newton metres, the TQ easily doubles the pedalling power of most riders, ensuring relaxed and speedy uphills. Also nice to see: Trek has adopted the app and display layout from the Fuel EXe for the Slash+. Of all the display solutions for the TQ system, we've always liked this variant the best.

The power for the motor comes from a new TQ battery that delivers 580 watt hours. This is quite a lot for a light bike and, depending on the rider's weight and pedalling performance, should make long tours possible. At around 2.7 kilos, the battery weighs slightly more than is usual for light bikes and pushes the weight of the Trek over the 20-kilo mark. If necessary, the battery can be pulled downwards out of the bike. However, the solution with the filigree retaining screws is probably not intended for daily removal.

From 7999 euros: Models, equipment & price

For the time being, the Trek Slash+ will only be available with a full carbon frame and in two rather high-quality equipment variants. However, the price is ambitious in a weakening market. It starts with the 9.7 model for 7999 euros, which is still partly based on favourable parts such as a Deore disc brake sets. If you want top parts, you'll have to add another 4000 euros for the Trek Slash+ 9.9.

Trek Slash+ 9.7 - 7999 Euro

• Suspension: Fox 38 Rhythm / Float X Performance
• Drivetrain: Shimano XT/SLX Mix
• Brakes: Shimano M6120 (Deore four-piston)
• Wheels: Bontrager Line Comp with XR5 tyres

Trek Slash+ 9.9 - 11,999 euros

• Chassis: Zeb Ultimate / Vivid Ultimate
• Drivetrain: Sram X0 Transmission
• Brakes: Sram Maven Silver
• Wheels: Bontrager Line Pro (carbon) with XR6/XR5 tyres

Conclusion on the Trek Slash+

Trek delivers a direct copy of the classic enduro bike with light motor support and thus realises the concept that was already successful with the Fuel EXe. Probably a guarantee for downhill fun at just over 20 kilos, but the entry-level price is high. - Adrian Kaether, Test and Technology Editor for BIKE and EMTB