PIVOT MACH 429/SRAM X9 COMPLETE BIKE

The Mach 429 may share the lineage of other 26-inch-wheeled Pivot mountain bikes, but unlike other manufacturers that take their bread and butter full-suspension bike and stretch it across bigger wheels, the Mach 429 is a completely reworked chassis. A thorough adaptation of the geometry, including reshaped tubes, adjusted lengths, and tweaked angles, is just the start of what makes this a true high-performance, 29" full-suspension mountain bike. Pivot engineers also revamped and optimized the layout and size of the links for the 100mm DW-link rear suspension to provide a flex-free, 29er-specific platform. We set out to spec the Mach 429 with a kit that would reflect its high-performance nature for the best price, and the result you see here is a complete bike rolling with Easton components and Fox suspension.

Because many 29ers get a bad rap for being too flexy, Pivot made it a point to improve this aspect of the frame. Pivot built the Mach 429 from hydroformed 6000-series aluminum tubing and 3D hollow forgings. The production processes for these raw materials help to align and strengthen the grain structure of the alloy. Compared to the Mach 4, the tubes in the front triangle are bigger in diameter, and also shaped differently to add torsional stiffness. The rear triangle also gets a new structure. It goes without a brake bridge on the seat stays, and gets a vertical strut on both sides between the links. This enhances stiffness, which helps give the Mach 429 the same kind of precision as a 26"bike.

There are a few other details that emphasize the efforts towards optimizing frame stiffness. One of the easiest to see is the BB92 Pressfit-style bottom bracket. The extra width in the shell does two things. It allows the frame designers to connect a massive downtube and increase the width of the lower DW-link, increasing stiffness and resistance to torsional flex. It also provides better support for the bottom bracket bearings. Speaking of bearings, the forged and CNC-machined aluminum lower link contains eight sealed cartridge bearings—two at each corner. This increases its durability, stretches service life, and optimizes suspension function. The upper link is made of carbon fiber to reduce weight without reducing strength, and since it sees less stress than its lower counterpart, Pivot relies on four bearings here to do the job of keeping the suspension operating smoothly.

Looking at the specs, you'll see that the Mach 429 is a well-sorted mixture new standards. The Pressfit BB92 is one example. The tapered head tube is another. We love the tracking precision afforded by forks with tapered steerers, and this Zero Stack incarnation allows a lower total stack height and lower handlebar if you choose. This is a great benefit for a 29er suspension bike, especially on the smaller sizes. The back end is tightened up by a 12 x 142mm thru-axle. It adds security and stiffness, and it's as easy and nearly as fast to release as a standard quick release.

The Mach 429 is one of few 29ers that utilize the highly respected DW-link suspension design. While enhanced for the 29er application, it still retains all the positive traits. One of the standout features of this suspension design is its inherent anti-squat characteristics. When you push on the pedals the links counteract chain and inertia forces, preventing squat and propelling you forward. This design remains highly active while both pedaling and braking, which offers solid traction when climbing or descending on technical trails. Another advantage of the DW-link is its axle path. It’s been tuned to offer a slight rearward motion to take the edge off of square bumps, offering a smooth, momentum retaining ride.

Pivot specs the Mach 429 with the Fox Kashima-coated RP23 rear shock, ensuring smooth, plush movement from your very first ride. We felt the Float 29 120 RLC would best match this chassis, and made sure to choose the 15QR thru-axle option to maintain stiffness throughout the bike. This fork provides versatility for any terrain or riding style, and offers compression, rebound, and preload adjustments. The RLC also features a lockout to aid in long fire road or asphalt climbs.

SRAM X9 components are a perfect match for the Mach 429’s long legs. You'll get an X9 2X10 Crankset with 38/24 chainrings and a 12-36-tooth PG-1050 cassette, along with a matching X9 rear derailleur. This combination offers all the gear ratios needed to get around the mountain. Shifting duty is handled by X9 triggers. You'll roll on Easton EA70XCT wheels wrapped in Schwalbe Performance Rocket Ron 29 x 2.25” tires, and when the time comes to slow down, Avid Elixir 9 brakes with 185mm rotors do the job with power to spare and a great lever feel. Easton EA70 parts get the nod for the handlebar, stem, and seatpost, with a Sella Italia SL Kit Carbonio saddle completing the cockpit.

The Pivot Mach 429/SRAM X9 Complete Bike is available in anodized Black. It comes in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large.

Mach 429/SRAM X9 Complete Bike Price:  $4199.00