ROB’S TREK SLASH £4,500

(frame only) This old dog is keen on learning some new tricks

I’ve had a few great rides on the Slash recently and have been loving how efficient and sprightly the RockShox Flight Attendant system makes the bike feel. It’s punchy and responsive on mellow singletrack or uphill, but point it down and it transforms back into a big-hitting beast. So, I’ve been using it more like a trail bike rather than just reserving it for big days on really tough terrain.

I know, I’ve said this before, but I’m always pleasantly surprised by how quick and familiar the Trek feels every time I jump on it. And that’s been a real plus on my recent rides.

Earlier this month, Luke and I took some time out from our regular test ride and he gave me some coaching advice, which I really appreciated. I’m always keen to improve but haven’t had any proper coaching before – something I’m keen on changing when I get a chance. Luke may not be a professional mountain bike trainer, but he is a highly qualified ski instructor with nearly a decade of experience under his belt, along with being an accomplished former World Cup downhill racer, so it’s fair to say the man knows his stuff. He filmed me running through a couple of turns and picked up on some bad habits that I needed to rectify.

After a quick chat it was back up the hill to try the same corners again. Because I spend most of my ride time thinking about the bikes and products I’m testing, I tend to neglect analysing my technique. Having the chance to spend some time learning on the bike and fix some quirks has left me buzzing with enthusiasm.

I took the Slash with me to Innerleithen in Scotland for the first of our Ride Together ride-outs with Nukeproof and CALM, where I was able to put Luke’s advice into practice as we made our way down some incredible trails. Not having to think about bike set-up or anything makes this sort of stuff a whole lot easier. I’ve still got loads to learn, but I’m excited to get out there on the Slash and keep improving my technique. www.trekbikes.com