Hey folks,
I'm currently stuck between two bikes and would love to hear what you'd choose, especially if you've ridden or owned either.
Radon Slide Trail 9.0 Carbon – €2000
- Fox 36 Performance Elite GRIP2 (150mm)
- Fox Float X Performance Elite (140mm)
- Magura MT5 brakes (4-piston)
- Shimano XT/SLX 12-speed
- Mavic Crossmax XL S wheels
- Carbon front triangle + alloy rear
- Crazy value for the parts
Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 (2023) – €2500
- Fox 36 Rhythm (same travel)
- Fox Float X
- Shimano XT drivetrain
- Shimano Deore 4-piston brakes
- Alloy frame with lifetime warranty
- Strong dealer/support network
I ride mostly trails, urban stairs, some jumps up to ~1.5m, and just general aggressive trail riding. I’m not racing or riding bike parks, but I like to push it.
My Dilemma:
- The Radon gives me an insane spec for the money, but I’ve seen people complain about frame quality (BB tolerances, creaks, bearing fitment) and poor support.
- The Trek is more expensive, but has a better reputation for reliability, support, and resale. Slightly heavier and lower spec, but more peace of mind.
I’m not too worried about weight, and if the Radon frame fails in the future, I’m open to swapping it for something better while keeping the parts.
Anyone had experience with Radon full-suspension frames?
What would you guys choose, better parts now and gamble on the frame, or go with the safer long-term frame?
Really appreciate the help!
by Bonnie9138
8 Comments
I don’t have any direct experience with Radon but my opinion is that it’s better to start with a good foundation (frame) as all the other components can be upgraded over time.
Do you want your frame to say it’s Trek or Radon?
Trek
I always like buying for a more compliant and well engineered frame over components. Its the reason I tend to steer people away from “best bang for your buck” bikes *Only if they have the money to buy better* Obviously if they can only afford a 1200 bike then get a bike with good components and meh frame. but if you can cough up the money, nicer frames just got that “feel” to them.
I have the slide trail al 7 and it’s awesome. I’ve never ridden any fancy expensive full sus so I can’t really compare but if I had to buy a bike right now, I’d choose a slide trail again because it climbs well and descents well too. It’s basically all I need for the stuff I do on a mtb and it can probably handle way more than the trails I ride around here.
Normally, I’d go for the higher-spec Radon, but since this is your first but then go for the Trek to avoid unnecessary headaches.
Enjoy!
Radon because it’s less prevalent on the trails and the spec is better. Trek is fine but it’s like the Camry of bikes.. yawn.
Never heard of radon