We've had the aluminium Trek Fuel EX 8 on test. And we're very pleased with it. Metal is ace.
I wonder if the Slash will be replaced with something more modular that combines it with the Session like new Orbea and Lapierre big bikes. Maybe a Session with swappable link or rear end? Or they might just drop if in favour of the Fuel LX.
I took it to Canada and was extremely impressed by it. It's a very capable descender that saw me going somewhat faster on unfamiliar trails than I normally would. The suspension felt really supple. I could not fault it in any way other than wanting to fit a smaller chainring and I would add a set of higher rise bars as I am a tall fellow and like a higher front end for long days out.
I can't say that I ever noticed the weight of it. It just rode really well.
I borrowed one of these recently and was impressed. Too much bike for my local trails (and it had a Fox 38 on the front) but it pedalled and climbed impressively. Concentric pivot rear ends might be my favourite layout - best of both worlds for me as I prefer a good single pivot for pedalling feel and feedback.
You know Trek has really upped their game with their full sus bikes. They used to be an eye-sore with those rubbish knock-block non-sense, but now they are actually very sorted looking.
I do think they should stop pushing these hollow-boxes inside the frames though. They must add weight and they definitely add some manufacturing time.
If I'm going out for a short ride I can take a tool and some kit in my clothes, if it is a big ride I can take my bigger bag, if a medium ride I can take my small bag.
Having a box in there is like saying I have to carry a bag all the time. I can't see the issue with just putting some mounts on and you could bolt on a box like Canyon did a few years ago:
You know Trek has really upped their game with their full sus bikes. They used to be an eye-sore with those rubbish knock-block non-sense, but now they are actually very sorted looking.
I do think they should stop pushing these hollow-boxes inside the frames though. They must add weight and they definitely add some manufacturing time.
If I'm going out for a short ride I can take a tool and some kit in my clothes, if it is a big ride I can take my bigger bag, if a medium ride I can take my small bag.
Having a box in there is like saying I have to carry a bag all the time. I can't see the issue with just putting some mounts on and you could bolt on a box like Canyon did a few years ago:
Can someone tell gravity that ride weight is better than real weight when dragging it up the hill