Trek Slash 8

Giant Reign X0

Q: Looking to get my first full-suspension bike (probably way overthinking this) and was looking at these two bikes: the Trek Slash 8 and the Giant Reign X0. They have almost identical components and are at the same price point. What should I do?

—Rob, who is ready for the world of full suspension

A: How do we answer this one? Neither bike has any major flaw. Both suspension designs are really good. Both will take about the same amount of time to set up and maintain. Both are from solid companies that aren’t going to change ownership or go away. Either bike will serve you well.

You do mention that this will be your first full-suspension bike; both of these options would mean jumping head first into the all-mountain world of longer travel and slacker angles. If you are looking to tackle steeper and more tech- nical trails and are less worried about getting up the climbs in a hurry, then these bikes will suit you perfectly. However, if you plan to ride the same trails you do now on your hardtail and just want a more comfortable ride, you will have more fun on a 5-inch travel bike like the Trek Fuel EX or Giant Trance X. These bikes are lighter and faster on the way up and are quicker- handling so you won’t have to be pin- ning it to get the most out of the slack geometry of an all-mountain bike.

In either case, your pick should come down to which company has the best dealer in your area. We’d buy the brand where the shop is going to spend some time with you, set up the suspension and dial in your position. That is what will make the biggest difference over the life of either of these bikes. Either way, you are going to have some fun. Congrats.