The Trek Slash is a fantastic enduro bike that’s previously caused quite a stir in our group tests. So far, however, there was one problem: it was only available with a carbon frame. The new Trek Slash 8 changes all that. We’ve got the inside scoop.
It isn’t much news to report on: besides carbon, the Trek Slash will now also be available in aluminium. But it’s news many riders have been waiting to hear. Previously, the Trek Slash was only available with a carbon frame. The problem is that If you couldn’t afford the top-end model, you had to make compromises in the spec. With the new Slash 8, Trek is now able to offer a good build at a lower price point.
The componentry of the Trek Slash 8
A highlight of the Trek Slash models is the RE:aktiv shock with thru-shaft technology. Instead of an IFP chamber that pressurises the damping oil, the shock piston can move through and out of the shock body which significantly improves the small bump response. This shock is also featured on the affordable aluminum model. The rest of the spec is reliable and functional too. The SRAM GX drivetrain, RockShox Yari fork, and Bontrager components are tried and trusted. We would have preferred the reliable power of SRAM CODE R brakes instead of the GUIDE R, however. For the tyres, Trek is relying on their new Bontrager XR4 Team Issue rubber.
Fork RockShox Yari RC 160 mm
Schock RockShox Deluxe RT3 RE:aktiv Thruh-Shaft 150 mm
Brakes SRAM Guide R
Drivetrain SRAM GX Eagle
Seatpost Bontrager Drop Line
Stem Bontrager Line
Handlebar Bontrager Line
Wheelset Bontrager Line Comp 30
Tires Bontrager XR4 Team Issue
Price € 2,999
The geometry of the Trek Slash 8
Regarding geometry, the new Trek Slash 8 relies on almost the same measurements as its more expensive carbon brother, which isn’t a bad thing; after all the Slash is known for its balanced handling. We are pleased to see that Trek have increased the seat tube angle on the aluminium frame as this was one of our only disappointments with the carbon fibre version (angle TBC). Additionally, Trek added a new frame-size to close the gap between the 17.5″ and the 19.5″ model.
| Size | 15.5″ | 17.5″ | 18.5″ | 19.5″ | 21.5″ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seat tube | 394 mm | 419 mm | 445 mm | 468 mm | 522 mm |
| Top tube | 580 mm | 599 mm | 611 mm | 625 mm | 651 mm |
| Head tube | 100 mm | 100 mm | 105 mm | 110 mm | 125 mm |
| Head angle (high/low) | 65.6/65.1° | 65.6/65.1° | 65.6/65.1° | 65.6/65.1° | 65.6/65.1° |
| Seat angle (high/low) | 66.1/65.6° | 66.1/65.6° | 66.1/65.6° | 66.1/65.6° | 66.1/65.6° |
| Chainstay | 433 mm | 433 mm | 433 mm | 433 mm | 433 mm |
| BB Height (high/low) | 352/345 mm | 352/345 mm | 352/345 mm | 352/345 mm | 352/345 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1172 mm | 1187 mm | 1204 mm | 1219 mm | 1248 mm |
| Reach | 410 mm | 425 mm | 440 mm | 453 mm | 475 mm |
| Stack | 612 mm | 612 mm | 617 mm | 621 mm | 635 mm |
Price and availability of the new Trek Slash 8
The new Trek Slash should be available very soon. The Price is € 2,999
Our first impression of the Trek Slash 8
The Trek Slash 8 seems to be the right bike for all those who don’t want to sacrifice riding performance despite having a slightly lower budget. The rear linkage with its Thru-Shaft shock has already proven itself in several reviews, and the rest of the componentry is excellent also (except for the brakes). We’re very much looking forward to a test ride.
For more information visit trekbikes.com.
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