The new 2025 Mondraker Sly - not that heavy, not that expensive

Mondraker brings out a third lightweight and mild emtb, the Mondraker Sly. Just like the Dune, the Sly too gets the Bosch Performance SX 55 Nm motor and the Bosch Powertube 400 Wh battery. But it bears more resemblance to the milder Mondraker Neat with similar suspension travel and kinematics. The Sly is the cheaper and heavier sibling it seems.

Mondraker Sly models and specs​

The Sly comes in two spec levels, and even the cheaper one seems decently specc’ed. The entry Sly R comes with Sram DB8 Stealth brakes. I never was a big fan of the old Sram DB8. But the new DB8 Stealth is found on a few more expensive bikes for 2025, so I’m hoping and assuming it’s an improved brake.

The Rockshox Psylo Gold fork is the most expensive of the new Psylo 35 forks. I haven’t tested any of them yet, but the Gold model looks promising as it has the new Isolator-damper. Another piece of interesting kit found on the Sly R is the Sram S1000 AXS T-type. This new electronic drivetrain sits one step below the Sram GX and it’s nice that we’re getting wireless shifting at lower price points.


The rest of the Sly R specs look familiar and sorted, with Mavic 29er wheels and Maxxis EXO+ rubber. Mondraker claims the bike weighs 20.9 kg. If the bike ends up at around 21.5 kg with pedals, I’m happy. And the price? £5.299 (€5.999), that’s not too bad, I think!

The more expensive Sly RR has a claimed weight of 20.7 kg and a price tag of £6.199 (€6.999). The kit on this bike is of the familiar and well proven kind. We get Fox Performance suspension and Sram GX AXS T-type along with Mavic wheels and the same Maxxis Minion rubber.

Geometry​

I can’t remember seeing a Mondraker size M/L before. But I think that’s very interesting as I assume that’s a nice size for me measuring 181 cm. Mondraker does of course stick with their “forward geometry”, which means long top tube, long reach and a short stem. Head angle is 64.5*, which I think is a great choice for a versatile trail bike.

Mondraker never had the shortest chainstays and they measure 455 mm on this bike. I would have preferred the 5 mm shorter stays of the Dune. But it’s okay, some prefer a slightly longer rear end.

My take​

Not having ridden the bike, I can’t say too much. But I always liked the old Mondraker Crafty, and I’m excited to see the components of the Sly R. Its spec-sheet is filled with new and promising components at a lower price point. Mondraker claim they have kept the weight below 21 kg, and that’s good enough for me on a less expensive Bosch SX powered emtb.