Pivot Shuttle AMP'd with DJI Avinox M2S: High-end e-bike with new super motor on test

At first glance, this bike looks almost like a light e-MTB - but it delivers an extreme peak power of up to 1300 watts and has an 800 Wh battery in the down tube. A combination that was almost unimaginable until recently. The Pivot Shuttle AMP'd is the harbinger of a new generation of e-mountainbikes. Powered by the new DJI Avinox M2S motor.

The basic features of the Shuttle AMP'd are based on the well-known Shuttle AM with Bosch drive (tested here). As is usual with the high-end bikes from Arizona, a carbon frame with the Pivot-typical DW-Link rear triangle forms the basis. With 160 millimetres of travel at the front and 150 millimetres at the rear, the bike is positioned in the much-used intersection of trail and enduro use. The Mullet set-up is also part of the Shuttle family's standard DNA.

In the video: BIKE checks out the Pivot Shuttle AMP'd

As with other Shuttle models, a flip chip is also used, which allows the bike to be converted to a 29/29 wheel setup if required. Many of the features are familiar - albeit at a much more advanced level. This is because the entire chassis, including the kinematics, has been consistently optimised for the new Avinox motor, which clearly sets the Shuttle AMP'd apart from its siblings.

The Avinox M2S - new super engine?

The brand new Avinox M2S (here the detailed test!) looks confusingly similar to its predecessor at first glance. Apart from the red logo, which makes the new generation instantly recognisable, the design, display and controls remain virtually identical. The decisive changes are on the inside - and these are much more extensive than the familiar exterior would suggest.

The Avinox M1 already set standards in terms of performance and played in a league of its own (here is the test). The Avinox M2S continues along this path and has noticeably increased its power even further. In the Shuttle AMP'd, the motor delivers up to 1300 watts - around 30 per cent more than its predecessor. A difference that is also clearly noticeable in practice. The power is almost unbelievable. However, the new Avinox not only scores points for its "hard facts", but also for its riding characteristics. In the test, the system impressed with an even smoother, rounder riding behaviour. Especially on technical, demanding climbs, the powerful propulsion provides noticeable advantages.

An interesting detail in combination with the Sram Transmission gear system: With the combination of Avinox drive and transmission, the gears can also be changed while rolling without pedalling. The motor automatically drives the chainring so that the chain can move from sprocket to sprocket. On the trail, this function can offer real added value, especially on changing terrain and tricky passages.

However, the M2S does not come without compromises. Compared to the M1, the motor has become almost 100 grams heavier. In the context of the overall weight of an E-MTB, however, this increase is hardly noticeable. And logically: If you call up full thrust, the battery is quickly drained even with 800 Wh. The battery is permanently installed in the Shuttle AMP'd. The high-range 800 Wh battery, which is already familiar from other Avinox bikes, is used. A clear trump card of the system remains the quick charger, which is included as standard with the two higher-priced variants Shuttle AMP'd Pro (test bike) and Shuttle AMP'd Team. This allows the 800 Wh battery to be charged from 0 to 100 per cent in just 2.5 hours. This is also relevant for short charging breaks on the road: After around an hour, almost 50 per cent charge level is available. This more than doubles the charging speed compared to a Bosch system.

The Pivot Shuttle AMP'd on the trail

The first few runs make it clear that this is a real pivot. The riding position is pleasantly integrated, the rider stands confidently behind the high front end, which conveys a noticeable sense of security - especially on demanding descents. This is complemented by an extremely plush and confident chassis: the front and rear are remarkably sensitive, generate a lot of traction and respond finely. At the same time, the suspension does not sag uncontrollably, but remains stable in its travel - a mixture of comfort, grip and defined support that works extremely well in practice. The new Rockshox ZEB Ultimate is fully convincing and can stand up well to the perfectly tuned DW-Link rear suspension.

At 22.5 kilograms in size L, the test bike does not set a weight record, but considering the robust equipment and thick batteries, this is a very good value. The bike feels light on the trail. Despite its high reserves, the Shuttle AMP'd feels light-footed, playful and fun to ride. The equipment also matches the range of use on rough enduro tracks. Powerful brakes, a very harmonious tyre combination and a well-rounded cockpit leave little to be desired. Given the price range, however, this is to be expected.

On the climbs, the Shuttle AMP'd is a rocket thanks to the powerful Avinox M2S alone. With the high-traction rear triangle, you can get the power to the ground in the best possible way. However, the riding position is not ultimately geared towards tough climbs. As is usual with Pivot, the seat angle is more classic than decidedly steep. On steep sections, you have to actively keep the bike on track and put a lot of pressure on the front wheel to prevent the front end from rising with the high motor power. Especially in turbo mode, there is a wild horse feeling. Depending on the riding situation, the extreme power of the M2S engine can be difficult to control. Our tip for tricky climbs is the Auto mode, which keeps the power much better in check and makes climbing more controlled.

The Pivot Shuttle AMP'd leaves an exceptionally strong impression: Hardly any other bike with Avinox drive combines such a high fun potential with so much sovereignty in the terrain. Conceptually, it hits the gap between all-mountain and enduro pretty much exactly - and thus positions itself as a versatile trail all-rounder.

Models and prices

Watch out, now it's getting tough. Anyone who knows the brand knows that Pivot does not offer low entry-level prices. The Shuttle AMP'd is available in a total of three equipment variants. It starts at 9699 euros for the Ride version - then with Fox Performance suspension. Our test bike is the middle Shuttle AMP'd Pro version - and it costs a whopping 11,999 euros. However, with Rockshox Ultimate suspension and high-quality wheels, it comes with everything you need for even the highest demands. The top-of-the-range Team model with Fox Factory suspension, carbon wheels and all the trimmings costs 13,999 euros.

Strengths and weaknesses of the Pivot Shuttle AMP'd

Strengths

• Super chassis
• Fun and powerful at the same time
• Slim and light with massive motor power
• Benchmark engine
• High weight clearance: 149 kg payload

Weaknesses

• Permanently installed battery
• Slight engine rattle
• Extremely expensive