Is Trek Slash 7 A Good Bike? [Trek Slash 7 Review]

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Trek Slash 7 

• Price: $3829
• Category: Full-suspension enduro bikes
• Frame: Aluminum frame
• Gear: 1×12
• Tires: 29×2.50″

What we like about it: The RockShox Select+ shock and 170mm Yari RC fork give riders enough guts to conquer rough rock gardens, and the Shimano Deore/XT drivetrain provides a silky smooth shifting experience.

What we don’t like about it: Perhaps some people complain that they can’t get a nimble and agile body at low speeds.

Rating (4.7/5)

Introduction

The Trek Slash 7 is an affordable, full-suspension mountain bike that can crush any trail at an amazing pace.

The aluminum frame keeps it a lighter and stronger body, so it can defy tricky rocky passages. Meanwhile, the 160mm RockShox Deluxe Select+ dampers and 170mm RockShox Yari RC forks eliminate most of the vibration from the ground.

The Shimano Deore/XT drive, with its powerful 4-piston disc brakes, also provided plenty of grit for my ascent and descent as I faced the thorny and rough moving flow trails.

We have two months of riding experience with the Trek Slash 7. To make the results more informative, here we elaborate on the Trek Slash 7’s performance while riding, key features, components and specifications, and other versions of the series.

If you want to know more about the version, please refer to our review.

Climbing

The Trek Slash 7 has unparalleled superiority as a full-suspension mountain bike with amazing speed. Also, the powerful alpha platinum aluminium frame is extremely stretchy. It is paired with a fast drive that ensures immediate acceleration rather than stepping into the gap while pedaling. So this is its most competitive feature.

When I faced an uphill section with a 15% incline, the spread of gravel and dead tree branches was overgrown. But that didn’t make me lose confidence in the Trek Slash 7. Certainly, the 76.1° seat tube angle was a great attempt on its part, and I didn’t have to perform hard. Instead, I was able to meander up the climb at a decent angle. So all the air I used got a good response in the Trek Slash 7.

Not only that but with the Shimano SLX M7100 1×12 drivetrain. So I can smoothly perform smooth shifting operation after operation, have a wide range of speed regulations, and still provide riders with a fun riding experience. Obviosuly, that’s what Shimano brings to every rider.

Of course, the Trek Slash 7 was more than just a surprise to me. The RockShox Yari RC fork worked well for me, and the DebonAir spring was lighter and more easily compressed than normal springs. Additionally, 170mm of extra travel was a powerful weapon in overcoming these bumps, so I could easily make the next sprint.

It is worth mentioning that at the end of the path I came across an upside-down willow. It came into my sight almost instantly. However, the Trek Slash 7’s 4-piston disc brakes acted like an efficient condenser, quickly bringing the manic body down to a freezing point.

I think this is the same idea of simplicity and speed that Trek Slash 7 has been aiming for, it did.

Descending

“It’s easy to get up the hill, but hard to get down”. But the truth is that as far as personal riding is concerned, the Trek Slash 7 is not a strong believer in this saying.

When I was doing a thrilling speedy descent, I was faced with rugged flowing moving trails and continuous turning sections that gave me a headache. Fortunately, the Trek Slash 7’s 119.7cm wheelbase length solved this problem. Its nimble yet efficient steering ability allowed me to defy these agonizingly sharp turning areas.

Not only that, but the new removable blast block allows for greater steering angles. And protects the sleeve without limiting the turning radius, saving me some maintenance headaches. This is great. Also, thanks to the Bontrager XR5 wheels (120 tpi), the rough surface aramid beads have an extremely strong grip.

The 29×2.50″ size is perfect for me because I like the security that the larger tires give me. It gives the ultimate stability while maintaining acceleration.

As I descended into the wet and muddy grass trails, I was concerned that going too fast would introduce a certain amount of instability. But apparently, the Trek Slash 7 took this into account long ago. Because its thicker 34.9mm diameter Variosat mount is more stable and durable. Combined with the sturdy and refined alpha aluminum, it allowed me to maintain an extremely low center of gravity and move forward quickly while traversing at speed.

As I keep mentioning, the Trek Slash 7 will always provide riders with a novel off-road experience, whether it’s in the barrier zone or the rugged wilderness.

Main Features

Frame

The Trek Slash 7 is the result of careful consideration of the choice of frame, and the alpha aluminum alloy is the result of careful consideration. Also, the light, strong and refined surface provides an unprecedented feeling of comfort on the ride. The thicker 34.9mm diameter Variosat mount is also more stable and durable, allowing for faster extension and lowering. This greatly increases its durability.

Not only that but the brakes, tires, pedals, and other components make for a clean, simple body structure. Also, the internal wiring is complete, without excessive tangling. The universal internal management system allows any combination of shifting, braking, and locking to pass through the frame for a clean, crisp body structure. Besides, if the rider wants to be able to keep some personal items on the bike, the slim storage box in the integrated frame meets that need.

Geometry

As a mature industrial product, the geometry of a bike often implies more rationality. The Trek Slash 7, being a trail bike, tends to have a hint of radical geometry angles.

The steep 76.1° seat tube angle and 100mm head tube length were evident when I rode. This not only improves handling stability but also makes some improvements to comfort.

In addition, the larger stack value and smaller reach are designed to provide a more upright riding position. It is worth noting that although the Trek Slash 7 has large, wide tires, the geometry of the rear triangle is designed to be very compact and the length of the rear fork is only 435mm. This compensates for the unstable steering.

Components and Specifications

Shimano SLX M7100 1×12 Drivetrain

Shimano’s new SLX 12-speed M7100 The groupset is everything a trail rider needs. Smooth and precise shifting ensures that every rider also has a smooth riding experience.

Also, the 1x system is a mainstream option on the market. It is possible to find the right speed gear without an overly complicated speed adjustment experience.

I have a deep feeling about the actual riding. Even when faced with gravel-packed dirt and gravel roads, I was able to quickly shift from the highest gear to the lowest gear with a simple rotation of my left hand.

I wasn’t worried at all about the chain going up or down, Shimano gave me plenty of confidence.

Bontrager XR5 wheels

I believe that as the soul of an off-road bike, tires are a consideration for every rider. And I believe Trek Slash 7 is also considered in this way.

I like big tires. Because in off-road riding, big and wide tires can give me great traction. So the 29″ size tires are just right for my needs. Moreover, the rich aramid beads on the surface are exceptionally rough and can maintain a solid body even on wet roads in rainy weather.

At the same time, off-road riding will inevitably encounter some thorny gravel bumps, and the beaded belt configured on the Bontrager XR5 wheel is a good solution to this problem. Also, its special anti-puncture system can better meet the needs of adventure on off-road trails.

Shimano 4 MT4100 Piston Hydraulic Brake

As we all know, there are inevitably some obstacles in the mountains and forest roads. Because it appears almost instantly in front of you, catching you off guard.

Compared to traditional mechanical brakes, hydraulic brakes have a more responsive and emergency braking ability. Not only is it easier to clean in daily use, but it also distributes heat more evenly due to friction. Besides, the Trek Slash 7’s 4-piston hydraulic discs provide unparalleled braking power.

When I rode the Trek Slash 7 on an intense adventure through the wet jungle trails, I was able to make the transition from frantic to stationary exactly as I commanded. Certainly, this is all thanks to the 4-piston hydraulic disc.

RockShox Yari RC Fork and RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT

It cannot be denied that, in the face of endless mountain bumps, how to dampen down the vibration to provide a comfortable riding experience is a point that all off-road bikes must consider.

The answer to the Trek Slash 7 is the RockShox Yari RC fork and the RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT. Because the RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT is the perfect solution to the problem of sore arms caused by bumps in the road.

Moreover, the RockShox Yari RC fork provides the ultimate damping experience with 170mm of super high travel when I’m going through some complicated and rough roads, similar to a “rock garden”.

The RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT is also equipped with a DebonAir+ air spring system that offers more adjustment potential than ever before. Additionally, the new special bottom bumper reduces the harshness of heavy impacts and gives me great confidence and courage to face the next ascent and descent.

Other Versions Of Trek Slash

To have more options, we tested other models of the Trek Slash 7 series and had some time to ride them. Among them was the Trek Slash 8.

Certainly, the two have a very similar setup, and the same alpha aluminum alloy surface allows them to maintain the same body weight (15.5kg by our measurement). It is therefore difficult to distinguish the two from each other in terms of appearance.

But it is clear that Trek Slash 8, as an upgraded version, has put some thought into its settings. And the first is in the fork selection.

Obviously, the RockShox ZEB Select is lighter in appearance and more powerful in terms of reduction capacity. Besides, 170mm of front travel with 160mm of rear travel ensures that every rider will be able to go on a rock-shredding experience.

Also in terms of drivetrain choice, the Trek Slash 8 took a different approach and went with the SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed. In practice, it is faster and more quickly adapted to the harsh mountainous and rugged terrain. This is what SRAM has always been good at.

If you are aiming for an aggressive XC race, then Trek Slash 8 must be more suitable for your presence. But only if your budget is sufficient.

FAQs

What is the price of the Trek Slash 7?

The Trek Rail 7 is priced at $3929.

What material is the body frame of the Trek Rail 7 made of?

The body frame of Trek Rail 7 is Alpha Platinum Aluminium.

What size are the tires on the Trek Rail 7?

The Trek Rail 7 has 29×2.50″ tires.

What is the maximum weight limit for the Trek Rail 7?

The Trek Rail 7 has a maximum weight limit of 136kg.

Trek Slash 7 Size Chart

Size	Height of the Rider
S	153 – 167 cm5’0″ – 5’6″
M	161 – 172 cm5’3″ – 5’8″
M/L	166 – 179 cm5’5″ – 5’10”
L	177 – 188 cm 5’10” – 6’2″
XL	186 – 196 cm6’1″ – 6’5″

Trek Slash 7 Specs

Frameset

Frame	Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage, tapered head tube, Knock Block 2.0, Control Freak internal routing, downtube guard, shuttle guard, threaded BB, ISCG 05, 34.9mm seat tube, magnesium rocker link, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, 160mm travel
Fork	RockShox Yari RC, DebonAir spring, Motion Control RC damper, tapered steerer, 42mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Maxle Stealth, 170mm travel
Shock	RockShox Deluxe Select+, DebonAir spring, Select+ RL damper, 230×62.5mm
Max compatible fork travel	180mm (596mm axle-to-crown)

Wheels

Wheel front	Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru–axle
Wheel rear	Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-bolt, Boost148, 12mm thru-axle
Skewer rear	Bontrager Switch thru-axle, removable lever
Tire	Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50”
Tire part	Bontrager TLR sealant, 6oz
Max tire size	Frame: 29×2.50″ Fork: See manufacturer

Drivetrain

Shifter	Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
Rear Derailleur	Shimano XT M8100, long cage
Crank	Shimano Deore M6120, 30T ring, 55mm chain line, 170mm length
Bottom bracket	Shimano SM-BB52, 73mm, threaded external bearing
Cassette	Shimano Deore M6100, 10-51, 12 speed
Chain	Shimano Deore M6100, 12 speed
Max chainring size	Max: 34T, Min 28T

Components

Saddle	Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138mm width
*Seatpost	Size: S TranzX JD-YSI-22PLQ, 100mm travel, internal routing, 34.9mm, 346mm length
Size: M, ML TranzX JD-YSI-22PLQ, 150mm travel, internal routing, 34.9mm, 454mm length
Size: L, XL TranzX JD-YSI-22PLQ, 170mm travel, internal routing, 34.9mm, 497mm length
Handlebar	Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 820mm width
Grips	Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on
Stem	Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 35mm length
Headset	Knock Block 2.0 Integrated, 72-degree radius (includes infinite-radius chip), sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8” top, 1.5” bottom
Brake	Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT420 caliper
*Brake rotor	Size: S, M, ML, L, XL Shimano RT66, 6-bolt, 180mm
Size: S, M, ML, L, XL Shimano RT66, 6-bolt, 203mm

Accessories

Bag	Bontrager BITS Internal Frame Storage Bag

Weight

Weight	15.10 kg / 33.29 lbs (with TLR sealant, no tubes)
Weight limit	This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg).

What we like about it?

1. The lightweight Alpha Platinum Aluminium maintains a light and swift body.
2. Take advantage of integrated storage without having to give up travel essentials.
3. Replaceable downpipe elements protect the downpipe from stone chips and dirt.
4. The RockShox Deluxe Select+ damper with 160mm travel and the RockShox Yari RC fork with 170mm travel ensure stability on ascents and descents.
5. Shimano Deore/XT drives provide a constant flow of forwarding momentum.

What we don’t like about it?

1. Poor maneuverability at low speeds.
2. More chain noise.
3. Rare color options.

Video

Comparison Table

Bicycles	Price	Driveline	Tires	Fork	Click view
Marin Alpine Trail Carbon 1	$3599	Shimano Deore, 12-speed	29×2.5″	Front;160mm After;150mm	Click view
Norco Sight A2 29	$4399	Shimano SLX CS-M7100-12,speed	29×2.5″	Front;160mm After;150mm	Click view
Transition Patrol Alloy NX	$4199	SRAM NX Eagle- 12-speed	29×2.4″	Front;160mm Rear;160mm
Transition Spire Alloy NX	$4199	SRAM NX Eagle -12 speed	29×2.4″	Front;170mm Rear;170mm

Trek Slash 7 vs Marin Alpine Trail Carbon 1

Both are in the same price range, so you don’t have to worry about it bothering you in terms of price.

But the difference is that the Marin Alpine Trail Carbon 1 is made of much better carbon material. This is also good news for carbon fans. After all, the lighter body will also give the rider the most extreme damping experience.

However, for Groupset, Trek Slash 7 is composed of even better components like Shimano SLX. If your goal is the next mountain trail race, it can give you the most help.

It’s hard to make a satisfactory choice between these two vehicles. Of course, if you are a loyal carbon fan, then the Marin Alpine Trail Carbon 1 will be perfect for you.

Learn more : Is Marin Alpine Trail Carbon 2 A Perfect Selection? – [Review]

Trek Slash 7 vs Norco Sight A2 29

I must admit that the Norco Sight A2 29 has a lighter frame than the Trek Slash 7 in aluminum finish, and the Fox Rhythm Float 36 fork is a carefully selected product with 160mm of front travel for critical shock absorption.

After our actual ride, the Norco Sight A2 29 is lighter and has a good experience in speed (47km/h by our measurement). It is indeed a good choice for riders who love mountain riding.

Learn more : Is Norco Sight A3 Shimano 27.5 Splendid? – [Norco Sight A3 Shimano 27.5 Review]

Trek Slash 7 vs Transition Patrol Alloy NX

Unlike the Trek Slash 7, which has a fixed tire size, the Transition Patrol Alloy NX has more freedom of choice in terms of tires.

This is reflected in the possibility of installing not only 29er tire sizes but also 27.5er tires as an option. This greatly satisfies the wishes of those who are fans of smaller tires.

The 160mm of front and rear travel gives you a smooth and stable riding experience on bumpy roads. Perhaps the only regret is that its body weight may not be so light. When you encounter some impassable obstacles, you have to exert more effort to lift them.

Sure, maybe it has a better riding experience than Trek Slash 7. If you choose it, it is also a better choice. But only if you have enough budget.

Learn more : Is Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox Splendid – [Transition Patrol GX Alloy Fox Review]

Trek Slash 7 vs Transition Spire Alloy NX

With a weight of 16.7kg, the Transition Spire Alloy NX doesn’t have the weight advantage, but the Marzocchi Bomber Z1 fork also offers a relaxing ride. The Groupset is also the result of careful consideration by the Transition Spire Alloy NX.

With 170mm of travel, the Transition Spire Alloy NX is capable of looking out over any other mountain bike in its class. You can ride the Transition Spire Alloy NX to conquer all the rough and rocky trails.

If you don’t care about weight and want to take on the rough stuff, then the Transition Spire Alloy NX is the right choice for you.

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