Pivot Firebird 29" Announced

 

Enduro courses. World Cup Downhill courses. It’s hard to tell the difference between the two these days. Well, right up until the point when you have to grind your way to the top of the absolute hairball descent—that would be enduro. And that is also where the new Firebird 29 enters the picture—with its speed generating 29er wheels and a penchant for kicking ass.

The Firebird 29’s big wheels gobble up miles with ease, roll right over the gnar and add insane levels of traction to the mix. But this is no monster truck. The Firebird 29 is a lightweight machine that boasts a poppy, lively feel that long-travel 29ers have never possessed. Until now.

We obsessed over this bike’s geometry. After all, adding big wheels to a bike with this much travel is not always a recipe for awesome. History is littered with almost there long-travel 29ers. The Firebird 29, however, is a very different—and awesome—kind of beast. With its long front-center and short chainstay combination, the Firebird 29 possesses that nimble, snappy feel that tempts you to make bold line choices yet allows you to stay in complete control when you’re warping down trails at World Cup speeds.

The Firebird 29 has a lot to live up to. On one hand, it needs to withstand repeated pummelings at bike parks and on the toughest trails. It has to be bomb proof. On the other hand, it also needs to be incredibly light—this bike is meant to give you an edge on the climbs. Since a 29er wheelset inherently packs more grams than the same wheelset in a smaller, 27.5 diameter, we knew there couldn‘t be any fat on the Firebird 29 frame. So, we made it both bomb proof and lean. Thanks to our own hollow-core, high-compression carbon molding process and an exacting combination of composite materials and shapes, we are able to deliver an ultra-light frame that meets the same stringent testing requirements for strength and stiffness as our World Cup downhill bike. Firebird frames weigh in at a mere 7 pounds (3.2kg) while complete bikes tip the scales at sub-30 pounds(13.5kg).

The Firebird 29 features a long front center, short chainstays, a low center of gravity and a decidedly slack 65-degree head angle to deliver unmatched stability and handling. Plus, a new flip-chip adjustment system in its upper linkage offers quick and easy geometry fine tuning. Taking a page from the Phoenix DH Carbon’s progressive geometry, the Firebird combines some of the longest reach measurements in the sport, with short, 16.96” (431mm) chainstays. The Firebird’s long and low geometry gives you increased stability at high speeds and on steep technical challenges, while its short chainstays provide a maneuverable, dynamic ride that makes it easy to put the bike precisely where you want it.

Dave Weagle’s dw-link™ rear suspension enables us to build a bike that achieves the ultimate in both downhill and climbing performance. The dw-link’s anti-squat and variable wheel travel path traits yield both the square-edge bump absorption of a downhill bike and the crisp, pedaling efficiency of a shorter-travel trail bike. Fast and efficient—It’s a hell of a combination.

A top-notch frame design deserves top-tier suspension. That’s why the Firebird 29 comes equipped with Fox’s class-leading Float X2 and DPX2 shocks. Our top racers consistently choose the Fox Float X2 air shock for its incredible control, tuneability and plush, coil-like feel. Or to put a finer point on it—this shock gets the nod because it allows you to hit downhills faster with greater confidence. On top of that, the Float X2’s climb switch makes the Firebird an Enduro-style rider’s best choice for getting up and down the mountain. The DPX2 offers much of the same long-travel performance in a lighter package. To match the rear suspension, we equip all of our Firebird 29’s with the latest 44mm offset, 170mm Fox 36 FIT GRIP2 forks – the perfect choice for aggressive, balanced handling in technical terrain.

Pivot Firebird 29" Features

• Bomber—yet ultra light—full carbon frame featuring leading edge carbon fiber materials and Pivot's proprietary molding technology
• 162mm of supple-yet-efficient dw-link™ suspension
• Equipped with burly, 44mm offset 170mm-travel Fox 36 FIT Grip2 Factory and Performance Series forks
• Ultra-adjustable Fox Float X2 (metric) and DPX2 rear shock options
• Long-and-low geometry for a confident, stable stance Short, 431mm (16.96”) chainstays make easy work of the tightest trails
• Adjustable geometry with a flip-chip upper link mount and lower headset cup
• Compatible with both 29 and 27.5+ wheelsizes without compromise thanks to the adjustable geometry
• Fits tires up to 29x2.6” or 27.5x2.8” wide
• 12 x 157mm Super Boost Plus rear spacing adds stiffness and control
• Hassle-free, full-length, internal cable routing
• Fits riders between 5'4" and 6'7"
• 10-year warranty

Crushes Climbs, Slays Descents…And Rewrites the 29er Playbook
The Firebird 29’s big wheels gobble up miles with ease, roll right over the gnar and add insane levels of traction to the mix. But this is no monster truck. The Firebird 29 is a lightweight machine that boasts a poppy, lively feel that long-travel 29ers have never possessed. Until now.

2018 PIVOT FIREBIRD

Pivot Cycles Announces New Mach 6 Carbon And Mach 6 Aluminum

Already known as the most versatile bike in enduro, Pivot Cycles is stoked to introduce the new Mach 6 family of aggressive enduro / trail bikes. Benefiting directly from Pivot’s extensive gravity experience, both the new Mach 6 Carbon and Mach 6 aluminum offer progressive geometry and uncompromising pedaling performance. With new size-specific geometry, the Medium, Large and Extra-Large Mach 6 sizes feature long and low enduro-style reach measurements while the Small and Extra-Small sizes feature a more compact reach for smaller riders. All sizes feature slack, 65.75-degree head angles for maximum descending capabilities.

With Pivot’s long travel, downhill-influenced linkage, the 155mm travel Mach 6 models are specifically designed for enduro racers who are pushing their limits at speed and in technical terrain. When descending, riders will experience the highest levels of stability, control, and rollover capability. Poppy, responsive handling is also a key component of the Mach 6 personality, and attests to the influence of riders like Rupert Chapman and the ever-stylish Bernard Kerr.

“The Mach 6 Carbon is one of our most loved and best Pivot designs ever, so we took the update of this model very seriously.” said Pivot President/CEO Chris Cocalis. “This new design takes the Mach 6 performance to another level by maintaining the climbing and all-around trail bike performance that the Mach 6 is famous for, while giving it the aggressive descending capabilities of our longer travel bikes. With the new Mach 6 we continue to expand the boundaries of versatility as both the ultimate enduro machine and the right choice for aggressive trail riding.”

The Mach 6 Carbon and Aluminum incorporate all of Pivot’s best technologies, from high-performance dw-link™ suspension and linkage design to hollow core internal carbon molding or variable-wall-thickness aluminum hydroforming to achieve the similar stiffness and ride performance qualities across all models and materials.

Test rides on the entire size range of both the new Mach 6 Carbon and Mach 6 Aluminum are available this week at Outerbike, in Moab, UT and at Roc D’Azur in Frejus, France. All official Pivot Cycles demo fleets, worldwide, will feature the new bikes immediately following these events.

The Pivot Mach 6 Aluminum and Mach 6 Carbon models range in price from $3899 to - $10,398 USD, feature both Shimano and SRAM options at every level, and are available immediately at your Pivot Dealer: http://www.pivotcycles.com/dealer-locator/

Mach 6 Aluminum

• Pivot aluminum frame with next-generation, variable wall thickness hydro-forming - for carbon-level strength, stiffness, precision, and control

• Pivot’s size-specific long and low enduro geometry (Medium, Large and XL sizes)

• 155mm (6.1”) of renowned dw-link® suspension rear and 160mm front travel.

• 27.5-inch wheels for the flickable handling and superior rollover

• Cold-forged wide and stiff upper and lower linkage design with Enduro Max Cartridge Bearings

• 12 x 148mm Boost rear spacing for maximum stiffness and control.

• Custom-tuned Fox Float DPS shock with EVOL.

• Internal dropper post compatible

• Pivot removable front derailleur mount for a clean frame design is 1X and 2X gearing compatible.

• 180mm Post mount disc brake mounts for precision and weight savings.

• New ultra quiet low durometer rubberized chainstay protection

Pro-level enduro performance in a shred-ready aluminum package.

The Mach 6 Aluminum brings Pivot’s progressive long and low enduro/trail geometry to our top tier alloy design, offering best-in-class stiffness, power transfer, and suspension performance to every rider who’s ready to tackle new, challenging terrain. With stunning uphill capability and downhill handling that beats any bike in its class, it’s the choice for mastering every part the mountain.

New Enduro / Aggressive Trail Geometry

The new Mach 6 Aluminum incorporates the same progressive measurements as the new Mach 6 Carbon. With a new, slacker, 65.75 degree head angle, steep 74 degree seat angle, and Pivot’s long travel, downhill-influenced linkage, the 155mm travel Mach 6 Aluminum offers ultra-stable high speed handling, and the ability to make short work of black diamond descents. This progressive design enables every rider and enduro racer to conquer more technical terrain.

When climbing, the newly steepened seat angles and extended cockpit of the Mach 6 Aluminum help to increase traction and keep the bike balanced and centered on the most technical uphill challenges, enabling riders to conquer climbing obstacles they never thought possible.

Smaller riders benefit from customized geometry in every frame size. While sizes Medium, Large and X-Large see significant increases in top tube length, sizes Small and X-Small remain compact, in keeping with our rider-size-specific design philosophy, while still offering the climbing advantages of the steeper seat angle, and a nimble, capable handling on descents.

Aluminum Frame and Linkage Design

The Mach 6 Aluminum utilizes next generation, variable wall thickness, hydroforming technology to create complex multi axis tube shapes. This forming method enables our engineers to vary the internal wall thicknesses within extremely precise tolerances and to offer similar strength and stiffness as found in our Mach 6 Carbon, with only a small increase in overall weight. The Mach 6 Aluminum utilizes the same ultra-stiff clevis and linkage, and large, suspension specific, EnduroMax bearings as its carbon brother, for best-in-class power transfer and the precision handling essential in any enduro/trail race bike.

DW-Link® And Fox Suspension

The Mach 6 Carbon features acclaimed dw-link® suspension, dialed for long travel applications. The dw-link®’s famed anti-squat delivers non-stop traction, while the variable wheel travel path provides unmatched square-edge bump absorption and control on technical descents. The responsiveness and bottomless feel of the Mach 6 Aluminum is matched only by the exceptionally efficient climbing capability for faster, easier ascents – getting you to the next descent before everyone else.

The Mach 6 Aluminum is spec’d with the Fox Float DPS shock with the EVOL air sleeve, tuned specifically for the Mach 6. The new Float DPS features improved bump absorption and firm lockout with a new DPS damper with three on-the-fly lever adjustments – Open, Medium and Firm options cover all of your terrain choices. The EVOL air sleeve significantly reduces the force required to initiate travel for the ultimate in small bump compliance, better bottom-out resistance and an incredibly plush feel in every setting. While dw-link® is inherently efficient on its own, the firm option is great for long climbs. These shock features are direct complements to dw-link® suspension tuning and patented position-sensitive anti-squat, giving riders even better traction on steep climbs and over rough trail.

To match Mach 6 Carbon’s rear suspension, we’ve paired it with the newest 160mm FOX 36 fork now featuring an EVOL air spring and updated upper tubes for unparalleled small bump sensitivity – It’s the perfect fork to match any trail rider’s need for aggressive, balanced handling on every part of the mountain.

ALL THE RIGHT DETAILS

The Mach 6 Aluminum utilizes external full housing cable routing, run along the downtube, with internal routing through the chainstay. The frame is both 1x and 2x compatible and stealth dropper are easy to install, with simple, clean internal routing through the seat tube.

The Mach 6 Aluminum is available in five sizes to fit riders from 4’11” to 6’3”+ from Extra Small (XS) to Large (L) and Large (Long) options.

Other essential details include ultra quiet low durometer rubberized swingarm protection, 180mm rear post mount disc brake, and Enduro Max cartridge bearings throughout.

WOMEN & PIVOT:

The Mach 6 Aluminum is offered in 5 sizes to fit a wide range of rider sizes and riding styles. At Pivot, we believe the bike should fit the rider, not the other way around. Our approach to rider-size-specific geometry relies on a balanced fit and adjusted geometry to maintain correct wheelbase length and handling to properly accommodate the proportions of every size ride, including smaller athletes. Our S and XS sizes are built with shorter head tubes to create more stand-over height, enabling you to ride in a centered, athletic position with tons of clearance over the top tube – essential to attacking descents and cornering with confidence and speed.

We create the same handling experience across the range by engineering specifically each frame size. Size-specific engineering enables us to create lighter frames in the small sizes while maintaining the same high strength in a more compact design.

Pivot complete bikes are also designed to intelligently address real-world rider differences, with the option to choose women’s specific saddle on any size and shorter cranks on our S and XS sizes.

PERFECT BUILDS FROM PIVOT

Pivot complete bikes are more than the sum of their parts – every single component is selected to give you the best experience on the trail:

Tires: For each of our bikes, we include the best version of every Maxxis tire model for each application – choosing rubber compounds, tubeless and sidewall technologies that are perfect for your specific Pivot.

Cockpit: Custom designed Phoenix Components work as a system to enhance cockpit comfort and control on every Pivot bike. To learn more about how these components enhance the quality of your ride, see here.

Wheels: Pivot bikes include the best wheel technologies available. Sun/Ringle wheels feature the Stan’s patented tubeless system with wide rim profiles and light weight at an incredible value. Our DT wheels are custom spec’d to include the 36-tooth Star Ratchet hubs for immediate engagement off the line and the friendliest, most reliable tubeless system in the sport, with easy setup and inflation. Reynolds Carbon wheels feature industry leading composite materials and proprietary resins that give Reynolds rims the perfect balance of stiffness and ride-feel. Combined with the nearly instantaneous engagement and jewelry-like finish of the Industry Nine hubs and Reynolds’ new lifetime warranty, these Reynolds Enduro wheels are the ultimate wheel upgrade for your new Mach 6.

Saddle: Pivot bikes feature WTB saddles that are specially made with the best, most durable, memory foam and feature a special hidden cutout for long ride comfort.

We take quality and workmanship seriously at Pivot, and know that the details are what make a great rider experience. Every Pivot Cycles frame undergoes an extensive assembly and quality control process to ensure that every ride on the New Mach 6 exceeds your expectations.

Mach 6 Carbon

• Full carbon frame featuring leading edge carbon fiber materials and Pivot’s proprietary hollow core internal molding technology.

• Pivot’s size-specific long and low enduro geometry (Medium, Large and XL sizes)

• 155mm (6.1”) of renowned dw-link® suspension rear and 160mm front travel.

• 27.5-inch wheels for the flickable handling and superior rollover

• Ultra-stiff, DH-inspired, double-wishbone rear triangle design

• Cold-forged wide and stiff upper and lower linkage design with Enduro Max Cartridge Bearings

• 12 x 148mm Boost rear spacing for maximum stiffness and control.

• Custom-tuned Fox Factory Float DPX2 shock with Kashima.

• Internal cable routing, featuring Pivot’s Cable Port System and full Di2 integration.

• Internal dropper post compatible

• Pivot removable front derailleur mount for a clean frame design is 1X and 2X gearing compatible.

• 180mm Post mount disc brake mounts for precision and weight savings.

• New ultra quiet low durometer rubberized frame protection

Pivot's ultimate enduro/aggressive trail bike gets long and low

Pivot’s renowned Mach 6 Carbon is longer, lower and sets a new benchmark for enduro / aggressive trail bikes. The new design benefits directly from Pivot’s extensive gravity design experience ­– the perfect combination of progressive geometry and uncompromising pedaling capability – making it the right choice for dropping into black-diamond terrain and hitting technical features at race pace. From peak to podium, the Mach 6 Carbon is enduro performance, redefined. 

New Enduro / Aggressive Trail Geometry

With its new, slacker, 65.75 degree head angle, steep 74 degree seat angle, and Pivot’s long travel, downhill-influenced linkage, the 155mm travel Mach 6 Carbon is specifically designed for enduro racers who are pushing their limits or for riders looking for every advantage in technical terrain. Descending, riders are “in” the cockpit rather than above, experiencing stability and control at high speeds, incredible rollover capability on technical trail features, and light, flickable, handling that attests to the influence of riders like Rupert Chapman and the ever stylish Bernard Kerr.

You have to get up to get down, and the new steeper seat angles combined with the roomier cockpit on the Mach 6 Carbon keep the front wheel on the ground and the traction engaged, enabling riders to motor over the toughest climbing obstacles with surprising ease, making transfers easy and giving Pivot athletes a huge advantage over tricky uphill features.

Smaller riders also benefit from customized geometry in every frame size. While sizes Medium, Large and X-Large see significant increases in reach measurements, sizes Small and X-Small are more compact, in keeping with our rider-size-specific design philosophy, while still offering the climbing advantages of the steeper seat angle, and a nimble, capable handling on descents.

Carbon Frame and Linkage Design

With our exclusive hollow core internal molding process and the right combination of carbon materials and design features, we’ve created the Mach 6 Carbon to be an incredibly durable and light chassis, with levels of stiffness and strength that are comparable to our downhill designs. Large tube cross sections, double wishbone rear triangle, ultra-stiff clevis and linkage, and large, suspension specific, EnduroMax bearings all contribute to class leading power transfer and the point and shoot ride quality essential in a top flight enduro race bike.

DW-Link® And Fox Suspension

The Mach 6 Carbon features acclaimed dw-link® suspension, dialed for long travel applications. The dw-link®’s famed anti-squat delivers non-stop traction, while the variable wheel travel path provides unmatched square-edge bump absorption and control on technical descents. The responsiveness and bottomless feel of the Mach 6 is matched only by the exceptionally efficient climbing capability for faster, easier transfers – getting you to the next descent before everyone else.

The Mach 6 Carbon is spec’d with the New FOX Factory Kashima Float DPX2 shock with the EVOL air sleeve, tuned specifically for enduro and trail applications. The new Float DPX2 features X2 oil flow architecture in a lighter weight, better pedaling package for optimized performance in enduro / aggressive trail applications as well as offering an incredibly wide range of individual tunability. The EVOL air sleeve on the Mach 6’s DPX2 significantly reduces the force required to initiate travel, for the ultimate in small bump compliance and better bottom-out resistance. When combined with the ultra-low friction Kashima coating, this design offers an incredibly plush feel with a wide range of damping adjustments. The Float DPX2 also offers three on-the-fly lever adjustments using the new Open, Medium and Firm options with an additional adjustment for tuning low speed compression on the open setting, to suit a wide range of rider weights and preferences. While dw-link® is inherently efficient in every setting, the firm option is great for long fire road climbs or between stage transfers. These shock features are direct complements to dw-link® suspension tuning and patented position-sensitive anti-squat, giving riders even better traction on steep climbs and over rough trail.

To match Mach 6 Carbon’s rear suspension, we’ve paired it with the newest 160mm FOX 36 fork now featuring an EVOL air spring and updated upper tubes for unparalleled small bump sensitivity – It’s the perfect fork to match any trail rider’s need for high-performance, balanced handling on every part of the trail.

ALL THE RIGHT DETAILS

The Mach 6 Carbon is available in five sizes to fit riders from 4’11” to 6’3”+ from Extra Small (XS) to Extra Large (XL) options.

Getting the gearing setup that works best for you is easy with the Mach 6 Carbon. It is both 1x and 2x compatible, and offers full Di2 electronic integration and easy, clean internal routing of shifters, brakes and droppers via the Pivot Cable Port system.

Other essential details include rubberized leather downtube and swingarm frame protection, 180mm rear post mount disc brake, and Enduro Max cartridge bearings throughout.

WOMEN & PIVOT:

At Pivot, we believe the bike should fit the rider, not the other way around. Our approach to rider-size-specific geometry relies on a balanced fit and adjusted geometry to maintain correct wheelbase length and handling to properly accommodate the proportions of every size ride, including smaller athletes. Our S and XS sizes are built with shorter head tubes to create more stand-over height, enabling you to ride in a centered, athletic position with tons of clearance over the top tube – essential to attacking descents and cornering with confidence and speed.

We create the same handling experience across the range by engineering specifically each frame size. Size-specific carbon molds enable us to use smaller diameters and unique carbon layups for lighter frames in the small sizes while maintaining the same high strength in a more compact design. Additionally, for riders on our extra small bikes, Pivot’s Float DPX2 tune offers an incredibly wide range of shock tuning which enables us to set up the Mach 6 Carbon for a diverse range of rider weights and abilities.

Pivot complete bikes are also designed to intelligently address real-world rider differences, with the option to choose women’s specific saddle on any size and shorter cranks on our S and XS sizes.

PERFECT BUILDS FROM PIVOT

Pivot complete bikes are more than the sum of their parts – every single component is selected to give you the best experience on the trail:

Tires: For each of our bikes, we include the best version of every Maxxis tire model for each application – choosing rubber compounds, tubeless and sidewall technologies that are perfect for your specific Pivot.

Cockpit: Custom designed Phoenix Components work as a system to enhance cockpit comfort and control on every Pivot bike. To learn more about how these components enhance the quality of your ride, see here.

Wheels: Pivot bikes include the best wheel technologies available. DT wheels include the 36-tooth Star Ratchet hubs for immediate engagement off the line and the friendliest, most reliable tubeless system in the sport, with easy setup and inflation. Reynolds Carbon wheels feature industry leading composite materials and proprietary resins that give Reynolds rims the perfect balance of stiffness and ride-feel. Combined with the nearly instantaneous engagement and jewelry-like finish of the Industry Nine hubs and Reynolds’ new lifetime warranty, the Reynolds Enduro wheels are the ultimate wheel upgrade for your new Mach 6 Carbon.

Saddle: Pivot bikes feature WTB saddles that are specially made with the best, most durable, memory foam and feature a special hidden cutout for long ride comfort.

We take quality and workmanship seriously at Pivot, and know that the details are what make a great rider experience. Every Pivot Cycles frame undergoes an extensive assembly and quality control process to ensure that every ride on the Mach 6 Carbon exceeds your expectations.

2018 Pivot Mach 6 Geometry

Ed Masters Signs With Pivot Factory Racing For Downhill And Enduro In 2018

Already at the forefront of World Cup DH Racing, Pivot Factory Racing is making a strong commitment to the Enduro World Series in 2018 with the signing of Eddie Masters. Masters will be racing both EWS and UCI DH events for the squad, alongside fellow New Zealander, Rupert Chapman. In addition to a full downhill and Crankworx schedule, the team plans to make at least six Enduro World Series (EWS) stops next season.

Said Masters, “I’m really excited for this opportunity, I'm so stoked to join the team and I can’t wait to get racing under the Pivot banner in 2018!” Team leader Bernard Kerr is equally happy with the new addition, saying “Pivot is such an awesome company to ride for and the team is really fun – I’ve built great relationships with Chris and everyone at Pivot over the past eight years and I know Eddie’s character is going to fit right in on the squad.”

Masters is already well known on the gravity scene, placing 3rd at the 2017 EWS stop in Rotorua, New Zealand, and as a consistent top rider in UCI Downhill World Cup and Crankworx events. Masters and Chapman have their choice of Pivot’s strong gravity and enduro range of models, and will be riding Pivot Cycles' new Mach 6 Carbon and Firebird in enduro events and the Phoenix DH Carbon in downhill events. 

In addition to Masters, Pivot Factory Racing is comprised of riders Bernard Kerr, Emilie Siegenthaler, and Rupert Chapman. The team is sponsored by Shimano (drivetrain), Fox Suspension, Maxxis Tires, Reynolds Wheels, Renthal (cockpit) Fly Racing (clothing, helmets and accessories), Jet Black (trainers), WTB (saddles), MRP (chainguides) and Industry Nine (hubs).

Find Pivot Cycles at www.pivotcycles.com, Facebook: PivotCycles, Twitter: @PivotCyclesUSA, Instagram: pivot_cyclesusa. About Pivot Cycles: Pivot Cycles builds the best-performing, best-handling and most versatile mountain bikes available and have been raced to top World Cup, Pan American and National Championship finishes.. Models include the Phoenix Carbon, Firebird, Mach 5.5 Carbon, Mach 4 Carbon, Mach 6 Carbon, Mach 429SL Carbon, Mach 429 Trail, Switchblade, Vault, M4X, LES Fat and LES. The Pivot Cycles line is composed of bikes that enable their riders to establish new benchmarks of speed, control, fun and enjoyment. For more information, please visit www.pivotcycles.com.

Evil Following MB Announced

Everybody’s favorite 120mm of fun just got a little better’er. We picked up right where the original Following left off and decided to make the party between your legs a little longer and stiffer, but not slacker or lower. The Following is back and more better’er with a trunnion mounted metric piggy-back shock, boost and an integrated chain guide. Now you can have all that big bike fun in a shorter travel package. Sometimes less really is more. Now you can tell everyone your 120mm rides way bigger than it looks and rarely bottoms out.

Not Lower, Not Slack Just Slightly Longer

Launching the original Following a few years ago, people thought we were crazy. The idea of releasing a 120mm 29" trail bike when the world was obsessed with longer travel 27.5" enduro bikes was crazy for us too, but we knew from the first time we rode that platform, we were on to something fun. And the more fun we had, we realized we could make the Following better, even more better'er.

The original Following was designed as a short travel playful trail bike, but to our surprise you all thought it was a mini DH bike, so we decided to add a trunnion mounted metric piggy-back shock, boost spacing and a few other things to handle higher speeds and bike park style riding. Moving to 148 x 12 spacing and a 1x drivetrain allowed us to follow what we have done with the Calling, Wreckoning, and Insurgent, adding stiffness in key areas while maintaining the compliance necessary to make this thing track in the roughest corners. The trunnion mount allows the shock to run on two of our linkage bearings, which not only makes the initial stroke smoother but allows the suspension to be more active throughout the travel. Geometry stayed very similar with the exception of an additional 20mm in reach, which opens up the cockpit a bit and provides a longer more stable wheelbase while maintaining our signature berm slashing 430mm chainstays. The leverage rate curve has been slightly updated to handle those days when landings are an oversight. We have also added support for various piggy-back, coil and inline shocks so you can build a lightweight XC/Trail slayer or a Pacific Northwest shredder. *Check the website for compatibility.

Evil Following MB Geometry

Many of you also asked for these odd size tires that were reminiscent of Nokian Gazzalodis from the late 90's. At first, we tried to reserve judgement, but we chalked this up to yet another industry ploy to sell more bikes, but after some serious time on these tires/wheels we can say they definitely have a place. We don't see plus replacing conventional tire sizes anytime soon, but they are a lot of fun in the right conditions. So, for those of you who want rock crawling climbing traction coupled with the ability to reshape gravel into a berm then go ahead and wedge a set of balloons in this bad boy! You will not be disappointed.

Four bikes, one frame... The Following MB can really span categories, with adjustable geometry designed around 120-140mm forks and piggy-back shocks. You can build a lightweight 120mm x 120mm trail bike with an inline shock or opt for a light duty enduro rig with a 140mm fork and a piggy-back shock. As if this wasn't enough options, you can throw some plus balloons on there and get a fast bike that rides on rails and can virtually pull itself up anything.

Evil Following MB Features

Evil Following MB Information

Ibis Mojo HD4 Announced

The Ibis Cycles Enduro Race Team*--currently the #1 team in the Enduro World Series standings--has been giving us feedback and recommendations for the last couple of years on what they want to see in a next-generation enduro bike. Our engineers, mechanics and designers have been working with the team to realize these goals, and we are pleased to announce the 4th generation of the Mojo HD, which we're dubbing the HD4.

• The HD4 features a completely redesigned geometry with a focus on stability and speed
• You can expect excellent big hit performance through increased progression in the shock tune
• After much experimentation and real-world testing, we've landed on a 64.9 degree head tube angle
• Reach has increased across the board (up by 4mm on small, to 34mm on XL)
• Compatibility with the longest droppers
• 30% stiffer upper link, 40% stiffer lower link
• Refined carbon layup yielding greater frame stiffness overall
• Features dw-link v5 kinematics, Dave’s most efficient system to date
• 27.5" wheels, up to 2.8" tires
• Available in Fireball Red, or Añejo Silver & Lime

"The new bike is inspiring to ride. I felt like I knew what it was going to do as soon as I hopped on it for the first run. When the trail points down hill and things get steeper, the bike is easy to move around, giving me that extra bit of confidence. After testing the bike for months, I am so happy we finally get to race it because it loves to go fast!"

Features 

• Accepts 27.5" tires in 2.3", 2.5", 2.6 and 2.8" Plus size
• dw-link suspension, as always
• Boost 148mm rear/110 Front axle
• 6” (153mm) of rear wheel travel
• Carbon fiber monocoque frame and swingarm
• 160mm Travel fork recommended, approved for 170mm
• Weight for the frame and shock, size large, gloss finish: 6.6 lbs (2.98 Kg)
• 64.9º head angle
• Standard Shock: Fox Float 7.875x2.25" with custom damping settings (full specs on June 13)
• Upgrade Shock: Fox Float X2, with climb switch, 7.875x2.25", rider-tunable damping settings
• ISCG 05 compatible with removable adapter is available
• Threaded bottom bracket
• Super versatile internal cable routing including internal dropper routing
• Included polycarbonate down tube cable guard
• Chain stay length: 16.9"
• 160mm post mount, 203mm maximum rotor size
• Tapered Head Tube and Steerer
• Dual row angular contact bearings on the drive side of the lower link. Large 28mm x 15mm x 7mm radial bearings on the non-drive side for stiffness and long wear
• BB height with tire sag is the same with 2.3 - 2.8 tires

Suspension technology, drivetrain performance, materials technology, carbon frame construction techniques and especially wheel and tire technology have all enjoyed tremendous technological advances in the last few years. All of us who ride have benefitted greatly. All the technologies found in the HD4 are built to currently accepted state-of-the-art standards.

Specs

• Seatpost Diameter 31.6mm
• Front Derailleur Direct Mount
• Bottom Bracket 68mm (BSA) English Thread
• Rear Shock Specification 7.875" x 2.25"
• Rear Axle 12 x 148mm BOOST
• Rear Brake 160mm Post Mount
• Chain guide compatibility ISCG 05
• Max Rear Rotor 203mm
• Headset Mixed Tapered (ZS 44 upper / ZS 56 lower)

Progessive Geometry

One of the design goals of the HD4 was to enhance the bike's handling capabilities over rough and steep terrain. The Mojo HD and Mojo 3 have had a lot of overlap and geometry similarities, with the new HD4 we are interested in separating the two bikes and growing the HD4's capabilities. We have been riding geometry testing mules for almost a year now, sampling different angles and lengths to determine the right feel for this bike. We've test ridden extensively in Santa Cruz, Downieville, Northstar, and in the high Sierras to get a feel for different terrains and traction conditions and the particular needs of each. 

In dialing in the geometry, we gave ourselves free reign to figure out what would work best. Instead of choosing a geometry by committee or based on other companies' bikes, we chose our geometry based on what worked best when we rode the steepest and gnarliest trails we could find. In our testing, we were able to see what each geometry dimension actually did to help the rider. For example, by trying a number of head angles back to back to back, with all other geometry dimensions held constant, we were able to pinpoint some desirable characteristics. The obvious one is that with proper trail measurement, the bike’s ability to steamroll through rough terrain is greatly enhanced. Less intuitive, but borne out by testing is that reducing the head angle will allow the bike to achieve higher lean angles before slipping out. This change also makes the bike more stable as the trail transitions to off-camber, meaning it’s less likely to slip out or get pushed down by the trail. On the Mojo HD4 we set the head angle at 64.9 degrees to maximize the stability in off-camber sections, increase our maximum lean angle and allow us to carry great speed through the chunder.

Ibis Mojo HD4 Geometry

Reach

We have seen many consumers buying bikes that were a size larger than we anticipated, indicating that we wanted to grow the reach of the Mojo HD4 by at least that much. We rode bikes with different reach numbers and were able to find a nice balance between being long enough without going too long. Compared to the Mojo HD3, size by size we increased reach by one whole frame size then added a little more. This longer reach combined with the slacker head angle greatly increases the wheelbase and gives a very stable ride for the roughest terrain.

Droppers

Like most people who ride aggressively on their trail bikes, we have really enjoyed riding with longer and longer dropper seatposts, especially as the terrain gets rougher and steeper. We recognized that having the seat completely out of the way made all the difference when things got really hairy. So we set out to give compatibility with the longest dropper posts available today, with enough room for adjustment to fit everyone. Compared to the HD3 we lowered the tops of the seat tubes roughly one size, so that a Large frame now measures 17.5" center to top. We also ensured the internal bore of the seat tube was deep enough. This allows riders to use the longest seatpost possible and still get their correct saddle height. On the Medium, Large, and X-Large sizes, almost everyone should be able to use 170mm dropper seaposts, while 150mm dropper seatposts should work for almost all Small size owners.

DW-Link

From the suspension standpoint, we absolutely love how the current Mojo HD3 pedals. We didn't want to mess with such a dialed suspension design so we left the kinematics the same for the Mojo HD4. What we did do, is engineer more progression into the shock leverage curve, allowing for more big-hit capability in very rough terrain. The travel went up a tiny bit, and it now has 153mm of rear travel. The bike is intended to fit a piggy-back rear air shock while still fitting a 22 oz water bottle in the frame. Coil shocks are not recommended, due to the clevis shock yoke extending the eye-to-eye too far to give a good bushing overlap ratio.

Travel

We think 6” of travel is right for most people's riding needs, we felt it struck the best balance for a climbable enduro style bike. With a longer travel bike comes the temptation to put 180mm forks on them, thus requiring heavier frame construction and moving the bike into a different category.

Variable leverage rates and shock tunes can make a 6” bike feel it’s got much more travel, or it can be the other way around. Since our dw-link bikes tend not to get stuck in the middle of their travel and have a very linear feel to them, the available travel feels consistent, predictable and more usable.

Another advantage of sitting a bit higher in its travel is that we can lower the bottom bracket height, making for a better handling bike, while not being prone to pedal strikes.

Linkage

With continued refinement, we've managed to eek 30% more stiffness out of the upper link as compared to the last iteration of the HD. This upper link is backward compatible to the HD3. The HD4's lower link's stiffness is increased by 40% compared to the links on the Mojo HD3 and is unique to the HD4. 

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