Photo credit: Trek Bikes

The Pinkbike Awards are an annual celebration of excellence and innovation within the mountain biking community. This prestigious event, hosted by Pinkbike, one of the leading online destinations for mountain biking enthusiasts, honors outstanding athletes, trail builders, and industry pioneers who have made significant contributions to the sport throughout the year.

These awards encompass various categories, including Rider of the Year, Trail of the Year, and Product Innovation of the Year, providing recognition to those who have pushed the boundaries and shaped the future of mountain biking. With a focus on both professional riders and grassroots trail development, the Pinkbike Awards serve as a platform to acknowledge and appreciate the incredible talent, dedication, and creativity that thrive within the global mountain biking community.

This year the award for mountain bike of the year went to the Trek Slash!

Trek has clinched the prestigious Bike of the Year title for the second consecutive year. Following their previous victory with the Fuel EX, Trek once again secured the top spot with their impressive model, the Slash.

The Slash significantly impacted the Enduro Field Test, earning praise for its exceptional combination of speed and stability, making it a favorite among the editors. This bike stands out not only for its performance but also its adaptability. Its versatile features include an adjustable head angle, compatibility with both 27.5″ and 29″ rear wheels, multiple rear shock progression options, and a range of frame sizes. These characteristics make it easy for riders to fine-tune the bike to their preferences with minimal hassle.

Furthermore, the resurgence of high-pivot suspension designs is evident, with more manufacturers embracing this trend. Despite the added complexity, the benefits shine through when tackling rough terrain, as the rearward axle path helps the bike absorb repeated impacts seamlessly. Unlike some long-travel, high-pivot bikes that can feel cumbersome in the air, the Trek Slash strikes an excellent balance – excelling in plowing through challenging terrain while remaining nimble for jumps and aerial maneuvers.

Whether navigating rugged trails or tight, slow sections, the Trek Slash impresses with its meticulously crafted geometry and predictable suspension behavior. Every detail in its design comes together to create a truly exceptional mountain bike, earning it the well-deserved recognition as the 2023 Mountain Bike of the Year.

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