Pivot is equipping its Mach 4 SL race bike for the ever-increasing challenges of modern cross-country and marathon courses. The geometry has been adapted for the demanding routes. A slacker head angle and the 120 mm fork are intended to ensure stability in technical sections, while the kinematics promise precise cornering behaviour. The geometry should enable late braking and longer pushing.
The Mach 4 SL uses a frame made of HighMod carbon, which, according to the manufacturer, should offer a very favourable ratio between stiffness and weight. The construction was developed for World Cup XC and marathon races. Pivot relies on the tried-and-tested DW-Link suspension system, which is designed to ensure fast acceleration out of corners and traction on steep climbs.
HighMod carbon and size-specific tuning
The frame is made of high-modulus carbon fibre. Pivot customises the stiffness profiles, tube shapes and flex characteristics for every frame size from XS to XL. Each size should offer the same response behaviour and control. The customisation affects not only the geometry, but also the structural properties of the frame.
The suspension travel can be adjusted between 110 and 120 mm. This adjustment option allows the bike to be set up for different trail conditions, from short XC races to long marathon stages. The 120 mm fork works exclusively with 29-inch wheels.
Not too much has changed in the geometry. Overall, the Mach 4 SL has become slightly longer and therefore a little smoother. At 75 degrees, the seat angle is almost half a degree steeper, while the steering angle is now 0.7 degrees slacker at 66 degrees.
Toolshed storage system and cable routing
The so-called Toolshed system integrates a storage compartment into the down tube and offers space for tools and other equipment. The system's hatch closes flush via a small lever and is designed to prevent rattling noises on rough terrain.
In favour of user-friendliness, Pivot has dispensed with cable routing through the headset. The cable ports at the top of the down tube are discreetly designed and can be flexibly assigned. This means that the Mach 4 SL is compatible with wireless seatposts, electronic drivetrains and mechanical setups.
Team Build with SRAM XX SL Eagle
The Team Build is the lightest equipment variant. It uses Fox Factory suspension and the SRAM XX SL Eagle transmission. This combination is designed to offer maximum precision at racing speed. The components are designed to minimise weight.
The Team Flight Attendant Build adds Rockshox SID Ultimate Flight Attendant to the setup. This system adjusts the suspension electronically and in real time. Flight Attendant analyses riding data and automatically adjusts the suspension to changing terrain. All the rider has to do is ride and the adjustment is made without manual intervention.
Pro, Expert and Ride Build
The Pro Build combines factory-level suspension with the SRAM X0 Eagle transmission. This variant is designed to offer a good balance between performance and durability. The components are designed for demanding applications.
The Expert Build relies on a Shimano XT Di2 drivetrain and Fox Performance suspension. The electronic shifting promises precise gear changes on technical routes. The Fox Performance suspension is designed to combine control and comfort.
The Ride Build uses a Fox Performance 34 StepCast fork, a Fox Float shock and the SRAM Eagle 70/90 transmission. This equipment forms the entry into the Mach 4 SL series. All five builds are based on the same HighMod carbon frame. The Mach 4 SL is also available as a frameset for customised builds.
Pivot Mach 4 SL: Technical data
- Frame: HighMod Carbon with DW-Link suspension
- Suspension travel: 110-120 mm (adjustable)
- Fork: 120 mm travel
- Wheels: 29 inch
- Large water bottle fits all frames
- Tool mounting points under the top tube
- Internal cable routing throughout
- Sizes: XS to XL
- Colours: Blue Stellar Fade, White Avalanche
- Price: 6199 euros to 12,999 euros
Conclusion on the new Pivot Mach 4 SL
Instead of a trail and a race version, the new Mach 4 is now only available in a single version, but the suspension travel can be varied between 110 and 120 millimetres. This simplifies the selection and at the same time expands the range of applications. Apart from the new storage compartment in the down tube, however, little has changed. The geometry is slightly longer and slacker, so the upgraded Mach 4 SL should now also feel more comfortable on trails. Thanks to the new mechanical Eagle Transmission, Pivot's entry into the world of racing is now 600 euros cheaper, but the Americans have once again generously increased the prices for the top models.
Stefan Frey
Editor
