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Trek Unleashes a Downhill Demon, the Thrift Store-Priced 2021 Slash 7 MTB

Aside from just looking downright mean and capable, people love MTBs because they’re massively fun. But to have that acclaimed fun, you need a solid bike.
2021 Slash 7 MTB 10 photos
Photo: Trek Bicycle Corporation
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That red demon you see in the cover photo is the 2021 Slash 7 MTB from Trek. Even though it includes no motors, batteries, or electronics to give you an easier time on your trails, it does come in with a beautifully affordable price of just $3,699.99. That’s it; nothing more, nothing less to get yourself a bike that’s sure to perform day in and day out, within its limits of course.

To understand a bit what it is you’re getting for this cash, it’s good to learn a bit about Trek. In 1976, working out of a barn, five employees managed to produce 904 touring frames, handmade and painted using steel tubing. Since then, this company has grown to be a leader in anything bicycle related. These folks even use rocket science and a myriad of other technologies to create each new model.

The Slash 7 is no different from any other monster this team puts into the world. Like most other bikes I cover, it’s most important to have a look at the frame construction first and foremost. The first noticeable feature is that this bike is a full-suspension bike, meaning it’s going to serve you well on a trail and descents; on flat ground and/or uphill, though, you’re going to struggle a bit because of that rear travel.

2021 Slash 7 MTB
Photo: Trek Bicycle Corporation
Secondly, let's address the material used for this frame’s construction. Based on the price shown, it’s obvious we’re dealing with an aluminum frame. However, Trek is using its top-shelf Alpha Platinum Aluminum, which is light and strong enough to rival its carbon cousins. To top it all off, there’s internal storage built into the frame, and the inclusion of Knock Block 2.0 will keep your components safe if and when you eat some dirt. Not sure about your teeth, though. Been there, done that, not fun.

For a front suspension, a RockShox Yari RC with DebonAir spring and Motion Control RC damper all work together to offer a solid 170 mm (6.7 in) of travel. That's more than enough to take care of any drops and bumps on your descent. Handling the rear suspension is another RockShox. This time with a Deluxe Select+ with 230X62.5 mm (9.05x2.46 in) dimensions, supporting 160 mm (6.3 in) of frame travel.

Personally, when I got into mountain biking, this sort of setup would have run you an obscene amount of cash. Fifteen years later, everything seems so much more affordable. I guess competition is good for something after all.

2021 Slash 7 MTB
Photo: Trek Bicycle Corporation
As with most other Trek bicycles we cover, most of the secondary components are from now in-house Bontrager. The saddle, handlebar, grips, stem, storage bag, wheels, and even tires are all Bontrager. Surprisingly enough, the drivetrain is not supplied by Shimano. Instead, we find an all SRAM Eagle 12-speed setup. To top it all off, everything is controlled through internal cable routing.

With a weight of 33.25 lb (15.08 kg), it’s not the lightest shredder around, but then again, you want some weight to keep you glued to the ground on banks and drops. One thing I nearly forgot to mention is that Trek includes replaceable down tube guards to protect the underside of your bike from debris or anything else you smash into. If that happens, all you’ve got to do with the Slash is get up and keep riding. The only thing to stop you are SRAM 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm (7.1 in) and 200 mm (7.9 in) rotors.

All in all, with the number of safety systems and components crammed into the menacing frame, this bike is worth every penny. Coming in this cheap, it’s as if Trek knows you’ll need some cash put aside for your hospital bills.
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About the author: Cristian Curmei
Cristian Curmei profile photo

A bit of a nomad at heart (being born in Europe and raised in several places in the USA), Cristian is enamored with travel trailers, campers and bikes. He also tests and writes about urban means of transportation like scooters, mopeds and e-bikes (when he's not busy hosting our video stories and guides).
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