Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle Review
- Price: $1999
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: VEE TIRES XCV (TWO SIX DJ) 26 “x2.25”
- Gear: 1 x 7
What we like about it: The air spring helps riders adapt to various terrains and riding styles.
What we don’t like about it: It lacks gyro support and doesn’t have tab holes on the headset.
Rating: (4.7/5)
In this intricate world of mountain biking, hardtail off-road bikes help people find balance and confidence. No matter how many challenges lie ahead, I believe every off-road enthusiast is ready to embrace them. With that in mind, I came across the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle, and I am extremely excited to see how it performs off-road.
Below, we analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle. In the latter part of this article, we also compare it to several other top bike models. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
To better test this hardtail off-road bike, I purchased a plane ticket and booked a hotel on IHG to visit Hafjell Bike Park.
At Hafjell Bike Park, I chose the Rollercoaster trail. This trail spans 5,266 feet and has a consistent downhill slope with a vertical drop of 745 feet. It features complex turns, steep inclines, protruding rocks on the trail surface, as well as fallen twigs and leaves from the surrounding trees. Overall, this trail presented quite a challenge for my ride.
Off-Road Riding
I started from the beginning, accelerating along the downhill slope. Skillfully handling the SRAM RD-GX-1DH-A3 DA rear derailleur, I adjusted the gear ratio to suit the downhill terrain.
At high speeds, I relished the feeling of the wind rushing past my ears. I controlled the bike with stability and agility, thanks to its excellent suspension and the Shimano BR-MT500 braking system, allowing me to maintain stability and control during high-speed descents. The sensation of sprinting downhill was exhilarating.
As I climbed steep uphills, the precision and smooth shifting of the SRAM RD-GX-1DH-A3 DA rear derailleur allowed me to adjust resistance and speed effortlessly. Swiftly shifting to lower gears, I felt the power of the pedals propelling me toward the summit. I could ride smoothly over the gravel and twig-laden trail.
In this turn, relying on my extensive biking experience, I controlled the Alloy handlebar while seated on the Pivotal Saddle. By leaning my body and shifting my weight, I could feel the bike’s agility and responsiveness, enabling me to execute smooth turns. I found the optimal entry points for every turn, skillfully maneuvering through each one. The feeling of being in complete control was simply fantastic.
Is that all?
This bike is equipped with VEE TIRES XCV tires, offering outstanding grip and durability. I felt very secure on the uneven terrain of the trail. It provides good flow, minimal rolling resistance, and reliable braking capabilities. I didn’t have to worry about losing control of the bike.
Additionally, it features a Pivotal Saddle. Its soft fabric provides excellent support. I felt comfortable sitting on it, with minimal pressure on my hips. The slight upward tilt of the saddle helps shift my weight backward, preventing potential crashes during descents.
Specifications
The Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle is an impressive hardtail off-road bike. It features an Alutech Alloy Slopestyle frame and a RockShox PikeDJ fork with 100mm front travel, providing decent suspension for a comfortable ride.
Additionally, its Shimano BR-MT500 brakes offer excellent braking power, ensuring rider safety.
Moreover, this bike is equipped with an SRAM RD-GX-1DH-A3 DA rear derailleur. However, the 1×7-speed drivetrain is not particularly remarkable and only provides basic gear options.
Therefore, this bike is well-suited for beginners. It also comes with a dropper seatpost, allowing riders to lower the seat for improved maneuverability while standing.
Other Versions
After undergoing numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike. It is a highly capable hardtail off-road bicycle.
However, many riders have specific performance or component requirements, so we have conducted further research on similar bikes.
Polygon Trid ZZ
The Polygon Trid ZZ weighs 14.9kg and features an AL6 Alloy Slopestyle frame and a RockShox Pike DJ fork, providing 100mm rear travel and 100mm front travel. It is equipped with an SRAM GX DH rear derailleur, offering average shifting performance. However, its Shimano BR-MT501 Hydraulic Disc brakes deliver excellent braking performance for rider safety.
Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle shares some configurations with the Polygon Trid ZZ, including an aluminum frame and RockShox Pike DJ fork, both with 26″ wheels. They both have a 1×7 drivetrain, offering average gear shifting performance. However, it can be upgraded with 160mm rear travel for enhanced suspension performance.
What do we like about it?
- The air spring helps riders adapt to various terrains and riding styles.
- The dropper seatpost allows for smoother acceleration on climbs.
- The SRAM 11-25T cassette enables maximum acceleration on flat terrain.
- It can accommodate 160mm rear travel for superior suspension performance.
What don’t we like about it?
- It lacks gyro support, and the headset doesn’t have tab holes.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Can I add a gyroscope to this bike?
We do not recommend adding a gyro to this bike as the headset does not have tab holes.
- What’s the braking system of this bike?
The braking system is the Shimano BR-MT500 Hydraulic Disc.
- How do I choose the right size?
This bike is suitable for individuals ranging from 172cm to 185cm in height.
Specs
Build
| Frame | Alutech Alloy Slopestyle |
| Fork | Rockshox PikeDJ, Travel 100mm, Standard Steerer |
| Bottom Bracket | Samox, Integrated |
| Headset | Internal Sealed Bearing ID:44/56MM |
| Stem | Alloy, 40MM |
| Handlebar | Alloy, 750MM |
| Saddle | Pivotal Saddle |
| Seatpost | Alloy, Pivotal, 30.9x200mm |
| Pedals | DH Specific Alloy Pedals with spike (Included) |
Groupset
| Crank | Samox TAF 15-D32A 32T,170MM |
| Cassette | SRAM PG-720, 7Speed |
| Chain | SRAM PC-1130 |
| Brakes | Shimano BR-MT500 |
| Brake Levers | SHIMANO MT501 |
Wheels
| Rims | Alloy, Double Wall with Alloy hubs |
| Spokes | Stainless Steel |
| Tires | VEE TIRES XCV (TWO SIX DJ) 26 “x2.25” |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Canyon Neuron 6 | Click View | Schwalbe Nobby Nic 29×2.4″ | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | Shimano SLX |
| Trek Top Fuel 5 | Click View | Bontrager XT3 Elite | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
| Kona Honzo DL | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHF EXO TR 3C 29×2.5″ | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
| Santa Cruz CHAMELEON D MX Aluminum | Click View | Maxxis Minion DHF 29 “x2.5” | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | SRAM SX Eagle,NX Eagle |
Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle vs Canyon Neuron 6
The Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle weighs 14.9kg, slightly heavier than the 14.7kg Canyon Neuron 6, making it more stable during rides. However, it also results in greater rolling resistance, whereas the Canyon Neuron 6 offers two wheel size options: 27.5″ and 29″. The larger wheels provide a smoother ride. On the other hand, the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle has 26″ wheels, which are smaller but highly agile.
In terms of drivetrain, the Canyon Neuron 6 is equipped with a 1×12 drivetrain. Compared to the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle’s 1×7 drivetrain, it offers smoother gear shifting and a wider gear range. Additionally, the Canyon Neuron 6 has 140mm front travel, providing stronger suspension capabilities compared to the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle’s 100mm front travel.
Therefore, if you desire more options for wheel size, I would recommend the Canyon Neuron 6. If you prefer smaller wheels, the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle would be the ideal choice for you.
Learn More: Is Canyon Stoic 2 Worth Buying? [Canyon Stoic 2 Review]
Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle vs Trek Top Fuel 5
The Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle can accommodate 160mm rear travel, making it slightly superior to the Trek Top Fuel 5’s 120mm rear travel. However, the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle falls short in terms of front travel, offering 100mm compared to the Trek Top Fuel 5’s 120mm.
Additionally, the Trek Top Fuel 5 is heavier, weighing 15.3kg, which can hinder the ride experience. It also features a 1×12 drivetrain, providing a wider gear range and smoother shifting.
In summary, if you prioritize a lighter bike, the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle is well-suited for you. If you prioritize front travel, the Trek Top Fuel 5 would better meet your needs.
Learn More: Is Trek Top Fuel 8 A Good Bike? [Trek Top Fuel 8 Review]
Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle vs Kona Honzo DL
The Kona Honzo DL features larger 27.5″ wheels. Compared to the 26″ wheels of the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle, the larger wheels offer a more stable ride, while the smaller wheels provide greater agility. Additionally, the Kona Honzo DL is equipped with a 1×12 drivetrain, offering a wider gear range and smoother shifting.
Furthermore, the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle can be upgraded to 160mm rear travel, providing better suspension capabilities compared to the Kona Honzo DL’s 130mm front travel.
Therefore, if you prioritize superior suspension performance, the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle would be a better choice. If you prefer a smoother ride, the Kona Honzo DL will meet your needs effectively.
Learn More: Is Kona Cinder Cone Worth Buying? – [Kona Cinder Cone Review]
Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle vs Santa Cruz CHAMELEON D MX Aluminum
The Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle is slightly heavier than the Santa Cruz CHAMELEON D MX Aluminum, but it also has a smaller wheel size. Furthermore, both bikes are equipped with dropper seatposts, which allow riders to avoid hitting the seat with their legs during standing accelerations.
Additionally, the Santa Cruz CHAMELEON D MX Aluminum has 130mm front travel, providing better suspension performance than the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle’s 100mm front travel. However, the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle can be upgraded to 160mm rear travel, giving it overall stronger suspension capabilities.
In conclusion, if you prioritize better suspension performance, I would recommend the Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle. If you prefer a lighter bike, the Santa Cruz CHAMELEON D MX Aluminum would be the ideal choice for you.
Learn More: Is Santa Cruz CHAMELEON A Good Bike? [Santa Cruz CHAMELEON Review]
Summary
The above is our complete review of the 2023 Polygon Trid ZZ Slopestyle. This highly capable hardtail off-road bike impressed us with its excellent performance on off-road trails, earning a high rating of 4.7. If you want to find more bike information, feel free to check out our other reviews.
Lastly, if you enjoy our content, please share it with your friends. If our content has been helpful to you, you can subscribe by clicking the email subscription button below. Thank you for your support!
