The original Switchblade redefined how capable—and versatile—a mountain bike could be. Today, Pivot debuts a more affordable aluminum version that brings the same innovative geometry, suspension and on-trail performance to a wider audience.
Pivot Cycles’ carbon Switchblade debuted in 2016 and quickly earned kudos from the press. With the Switchblade, Pivot pioneered the use of Super Boost Plus 157 on a trail bike. The wider rear axle spacing not only creates a stiffer rear wheel and frame, it also allowed Pivot to build a model possessing massive tire clearance and some of the shortest chainstays in its class, with room to spare for a front derailleur. The end result is an aggressive trail/enduro bike that’s confident, yet nimble, and which truly excels while wearing either 29-inch or 27.5+ wheel and tire combos.
The new Switchblade Aluminum now delivers the same versatility, features and performance in a more affordable package.
The Switchblade Aluminum and Switchblade Carbon share the same progressive geometry, suspension hardware and 135 millimeters of efficient-yet-supple dw-link™ suspension.
“Using our next-generation, hydro-formed aluminum allows us to achieve the same strength, stiffness and on-trail performance as the carbon Switchblade,” says Pivot Cycles President and CEO, Chris Cocalis. “The difference is that more people can experience that for themselves now.”
“It took years,” says Cocalis, “to develop the advanced shaping techniques that enable us to build an ultra-light aluminum frame, which meets the same strength and stiffness tests as our carbon models. But we’ve done it. Both Switchblade models are perfect for riders looking to tackle aggressive terrain or enduros. In 29er mode it has a confident, playful feel. In 27.5+ mode, the Switchblade is even more stable, but with absolutely unreal levels of traction. Now the Switchblade Aluminum puts all that performance in reach of even more riders.”
The new Switchblade Aluminum will be available in two color options—Electric blue with red accents or aqua blue with lime green highlights.
Pricing, Specifications, and Availability: The Switchblade Aluminum is available as a complete bike in four different builds, each build available as 29” or 27.5”+. The Switchblade Aluminum is available now, in all sizes, at key Pivot Dealers worldwide. For more information, visit www.pivotcycles.com/bike/Switchblade-Aluminum
Ron is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
Websites:
Bike World News
Ron’s Bike Garage
Current Bike Quiver:
Bird Bikes Zero 29 29″ hardtail mountain bike
Commencal Absolut 26″ Dirt Jump/Pump Track bike
Commencal Tempo 29″ full suspension mountain bike
Felt ZA 700c race bike
Kona Kilauea vintage 26″ mountain bike
Niner RLT9 700c road/gravel bike
Specialized Stumpjumper vintage 26″ mountain bike
Day Job: Digital Marketing
Night Job: Digital Marketing, eCommerce Consultant, Web Consultant, Bike Shop Operator, Husband, Dad, Tenor