It has arrived! I have a new rig for training, racing, and riding around in general.

I am keeping my Raleigh, which is a 33.9lb hardtail. The new FS Pivot is nearly 2lbs lighter at 32.2lbs. And, I’ve got weight to shave down the road, if I so desire.

So, on to the specs.

Pivot Mach 429

The bike is a Pivot Mach 429 size XL. It is equipped with a Fox F29 front fork. I have added a Truvativ Stylo Race bar and a Thomson stem. The shifters and brake levers are both Shimano Saint. For grips, I went with Ergons. I haven’t tried them before, but I think the concept is promising. If for some reason they don’t work, I’ve got some decent lock-ons I’ll switch out.

Pivot Mach 429 Front Fork

Pivot Mach 429 Front

For the drivetrain, I stuck with the Shimano XT front derailleur that came with the frameset. The crankset is Race Face Deus XC. This connects to a SRAM rear cassette and a Shimano Saint rear derailleur. I’ve been urged to upgrade to a solid gold chain that happens to be a bit lighter. Still not sure about that.

Pivot Mach 429 Rear

Pivot Mach 429 Rear Der

Pivot Mach 429 Rear Top View

At the top, I’ve got the Bontrager Big Earl saddle - one I’ve ridden for a while and really like. I may change this out for something lighter if it is more comfortable. I currently have a Ritchey seat post that is on loan from my LBS. This will be replaced by a Thomson Elite.

The other parts scheduled for replacement are the front and rear skewer. I’ve got red Salsa skewers on order that I should be able to switch out in a week or so. I may also switch out the seat post clamp, but I’m undecided on that.

I’ve stuck with the Time ATAC pedals. They have served me well. In addition to the saddle, the pedals are an area for potential weight savings going forward; the current ATACs may be replaced by their carbon counterparts.

Another potential carbon replacement would the handlebar - I may switch to the Monkey Lite DH bar at some point in the future.

Weight savings potential is obviously available in the wheels, but Mike at Big Wheels Colorado set me up with the Salsa Gordos wrapped with a WTB Stout in the back and a WTB Prowler up front, and I can’t see myself replacing this set up.

And speaking of wheels, the massive size of the 29″ Gordos and the fat rubber somewhat hide the rotors. I’ve got a 203 on the front and a 185 on the rear. I ran 185s both front and rear on the Raleigh and I just didn’t get the stopping power I wanted, so I’m going to see if this set up improves that - along with the four piston Saint brakes.

Now that I’ve got it, its time to ride it. And that is motivation enough. I have to justify the spend!