Trek’s new sixth-generation Slash has changed a lot from the prior-generation bike — including a high-pivot suspension layout, some big updates to the geometry and suspension kinematics, and a default mixed-wheel size setup — and we sat down with Matt Yerke, the lead engineer on the new Slash, to learn all about it. Matt walked us through the design goals for the Slash; their early experiments with high-pivot Trail bikes, including prototyping the layout on what would become the current Fuel EX; a ton of the design considerations that went into the new bike; how he sets up his personal Slash; and a whole lot more.

TOPICS & TIMES:

Introducing the new Slash (1:33)

Matt’s role at Trek (1:59)

Goals for the new Slash (2:52)

The first prototypes, and dialing in front-rear balance (4:01)

High-pivot bikes & choosing to go that route on the Slash (5:54)

Anti-squat & pedaling performance (10:38)

Idler pulleys and drag (14:20)

Geometry & other details (15:08)

Mullets & their tradeoffs (18:59)

Chainstay lengths for mullets vs. 29ers (22:35)

Axle paths & suspension kinematics (25:48)

Frame adjustability (33:33)

Matt’s personal Slash setup (36:18)

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