Test: The Mach 4 Carbon from the US manufacturer Pivot is not a completely new model. However, the border crosser between trail and XC gets some interesting innovations and special trail versions for the 2018 model year. We were already able to test the new Mach 4 Carbon at the Eurobike Media Days.
At first glance, nothing seems to have changed on the Pivot Mach 4 Carbon in the 2018 model year - but as is so often the case: impressions are deceptive. The gentlemen from Pivot have taken another look at their high-end carbon bike and made cuts in some areas. In addition to the now obligatory Boost standard, the entire rear triangle is also new, which now offers significantly more tire clearance. Here they reacted to the criticism of the predecessor – if you want, you can now easily drive tires with a width of 2,4″ on the rear wheel. Both the 115mm spring travel and the 27,5″ wheels remain.
Of course, the Pivot-typical frame design with extremely curved lines and a really unique look has remained - how could it be otherwise - which certainly shouldn't be for everyone. The geometry hasn't changed much either: The Mach 4 Carbon is still somewhere between a fast XC racer and a modern trail bike. Some are happy about such versatility, while others may speak of a daring compromise. Be that as it may, in terms of direction, the Mach 4 Carbon is pretty much alone in the bike market with a small handful of other bikes. By the way: The Mach 4 Carbon will continue to be available as an XS version with a very low standover height due to the shape of the frame. Perfect for very small drivers.
In 2018, the pivot bike will also be available in an XC race version and a trail version - hobbyists can of course still use the frame set. While a 115mm fork is placed alongside the 100mm rear travel in the XC variants, the Trail versions have a robust Fox 34 with 130mm travel, which not only offers more reserves, but should also noticeably flatten the geometry. Of course, a retractable seat post should not be missing on the Trail Mach 4 Carbon either.
Pivot Mach 4 Carbon: First impressions of the trail
Sure: In view of the light frame, the short suspension travel and the orientation of the Mach 4 Carbon, we didn't necessarily expect a potent trail bomber here. Nevertheless, the bike had to prove itself in difficult terrain - because let's be honest: Anyone who buys such a sporty trail bike from the noble manufacturer will hardly want to hold back on the trail.
We took a seat on a trail version that leaves nothing to be desired in terms of equipment with a 130mm Fox 34 fork, elegant Shimano drive with 11-speed XTR rear derailleur and Fox Float Factory damper. A nice detail is the sag indicator on the shock, with which the correct air pressure can be set very quickly. Another feature that makes you wonder: Why doesn't everyone do it like that?! Of course, the variable support should not be missing.
We were a bit irritated when we looked at the front wheel: Pivot actually uses a 160mm disc here, which in our opinion is simply too small for a trail bike – no matter how light the construction may be. It should be at least 180mm here. We have a similar feeling when it comes to tire choice: While the Ardent Race from Maxxis is still a good choice for the rear, it simply has too few reserves for our taste in the front and also quickly becomes clogged with dirt.
On the trail, the Pivot is a sporty fun machine that can't deny its XC origins - but probably doesn't want to either. The lightweight goes incredibly well uphill, the rear end is nice and firm and the seating position is still comfortable despite the fairly slack seat angle of less than 73°. If you then let it rip downhill, the Mach 4 Carbon puts a grin on our faces: It feels particularly comfortable in fast corner changes and on flowing terrain. However, difficult and blocked terrain is not necessarily its forte - but it was not designed for that either.
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