Pivot

Switchblade 29 Race XT Mountain Bike

First released in 2016, the original Switchblade helped set the standard for what an all-mountain bike should be. With capable geometry, efficient suspension, and the ability to accept both 29-inch and 27.5 Plus wheels, few bikes could rival its versatility. The current Switchblade features longer travel, updated geometry, a new frame, and refined DW-Link suspension. Whether we're riding the unforgiving terrain of the desert Southwest, steep trails in the Rockies, or the technical rocks and roots of the Eastern US, the Switchblade helps us get the most out of each and every ride.

At first glance you'll notice that the new Switchblade looks very different than the previous generation. The clean lines and fresh colorways are aesthetically pleasing and are sure to draw looks when you're unloading the bike at the trailhead. You'll also notice that the shock is now positioned vertically and driven by a rocker-style upper link rather than the previous generation's horizontal clevis design. This allows for a stiffer, lighter, and more compact frame while freeing up room for a full-size water bottle on all frame sizes. The rocker-style linkage also decreases the load on the shock and offers a more progressive leverage curve that's now compatible with coil shocks. Rear travel is boosted from 135 to 142mm for a little more forgiveness when the going gets rough, and every build kit comes with a 160mm travel, 44mm offset FOX 36 that brings comfortable handling and precise steering to the equation.

The Switchblade V2 geometry moves to a slacker head tube angle, a steeper seat tube angle, longer reach figures, and a shorter seat tube that accommodates longer dropper posts than the previous model. The 66-degree head tube and 75.5-degree seat tube may not go as far into the slack-and-steep realm as some other bikes in this category, but these numbers are thoroughly modern and hit a sweet spot that makes this bike a joy to ride on any trail—be it tight and technical or fast and flowy. A two-position flip-chip lets you adjust the bike's geometry to suit the terrain at hand, but also allows you to switch between various wheel configurations including 29 inch, 27.5 Plus, and mullet (29in front/ 27.5in rear).

*Due to unprecedented demand in the global supply chain and the bike industry over the last 18 months, material weight and exact components are subject to change. We are working diligently to keep tech specs updated, and any adjustments will be minor. If you have any questions, reach out to a Gearhead by chatting online or calling 1-888-276-7130.