The new 6th-generation TREK Slash 9.8 XT put through its paces at Monvtt.ch

The Slash 9.8 GX is a carbon enduro mountain bike that isn’t afraid of terrifying descents. It features an OCLV Mountain Carbon frame and a high-pivot suspension system with 170 mm of travel to devour rocks and maintain ideal grip on steep descents and intense climbs. The 29-inch front and 27.5-inch rear wheels deliver a playful ride, whilst the upgraded RockShox suspension setup is ready to tackle any challenge. A Shimano XT drivetrain rounds it all off for crisp gear changes.

This is right for you if…

You’re looking for a carbon enduro bike that’s aggressive on descents and agile on climbs. You’re looking for the grip and stability offered by a high-pivot suspension system, and you appreciate the long travel to absorb large roots and big drops. You love the latest innovations and you’re a fan of the benefits of a wireless drivetrain and carbon wheels.

Technologies on offer

An OCLV Mountain Carbon frame with a high-pivot suspension system, not to mention internal storage. 170 mm of travel at the front and rear, featuring a RockShox ZEB Select+ fork with DebonAir spring and Charger 3 RC2 damping cartridge, and a RockShox Vivid Select+ rear shock. Plenty of gear ratios to get you back to the top thanks to the Shimano XT drivetrain, a Bontrager Line Dropper seatpost and a mix of Bontrager Line Elite 30 Tubeless Ready carbon wheels – 29-inch at the front and 27.5-inch at the rear – fitted to a Rapid Drive hub.

The final word

For riders looking for the performance of carbon and a carefully selected range of top-quality components, the Slash 9.8 XT is ready to hit the trails. It features 170 mm of travel at the front and rear, upgraded suspension and drivetrain, and carbon wheels to tackle climbs with ease and tackle descents at full speed.

 

 Why you’ll love it

1. Its high-pivot suspension gives you incredible control on tricky descents, whilst the carefully tuned anti-squat and oversized rollers make for a surprisingly efficient ride.
2. The long travel of 170 mm at both the front and rear is more than enough to handle heavy impacts and tackle rock gardens.
3. The OCLV Mountain Carbon frame and wheels result in a bike that is lightweight, stiff in all the right places, and comfortable and quiet on stony terrain.
4. It comes with a mix of wheels, comprising a fast 29-inch front wheel and a stiff yet agile 27.5-inch rear wheel. It can be converted to a 29er for a speed boost.
5. You can tailor the Slash to your riding style and the trails you ride thanks to the adjustable gear ratio curve, the bolt-on lower shock mount that allows you to switch to a 29er setup, and the adjustable-angle headset (sold separately)