P
PivotSwitchblade
mtb
01
Origin
The Switchblade launched in 2016 as Pivot's answer to riders who wanted one bike for everything — trail days, enduro racing, and even bikepacking. Its DW-link suspension delivers 142 mm of efficient travel that climbs without bobbing and descends without running out of traction. The 2024 v6 generation expanded its capabilities further with mullet-mode support (27.5" rear) via the flip chip, allowing the same frame to morph from a snappy full-29er to a quicker-turning mixed-wheel setup.
02
Specifications
- Frame
- Hollow-core carbon fiber, size-specific layups, integrated drive-side chainstay and seatstay protection, mud-flap at lower linkage, SRAM UDH, flip chip geometry adjust
- Drivetrain
- 1x12 — SRAM XX Eagle AXS / X01 Eagle AXS or Shimano XTR (build-dependent)
- Brakes
- Hydraulic disc — SRAM Code / Level or Shimano XTR/XT (build-dependent)
- Wheels
- 29" (full-29er) or 27.5" rear (mullet) — both supported without compromising geometry
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The verdict
+Strengths
- Genuine do-it-all versatility: trail, enduro, bikepacking in one platform
- Mullet capability with no geometry sacrifice — rare at this level
- DW-link efficiency makes 142 mm feel fast on climbs AND descents
−Weaknesses
- 142 mm is deep enough to slow some trail riders vs shorter-travel options
- Premium pricing across build tiers
- Flip chip adjustment is great but adds complexity for casual riders
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Tags
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Related models
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